Gust of Wind 5e D&D Guide

The air around you begins to swirl and coalesce into a powerful gust of wind. Leaves, dust, and loose debris are sent scattering as the explosive blast rushes forward, threatening to topple anyone in its path.

The magic of Gust of Wind is beloved by mages and druids alike for its ability to manipulate the elements themselves.

The Player’s Handbook states the following:

Gust of Wind 5e

2nd-level Evocation

Casting Time: 1 Action

Range: Self (60-foot line)

Components: V, S, M (a legume seed)

Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute

You will shoot blasts of powerful wind streams in a line 10 feet wide and 60 feet long in the direction you specify for the spell’s duration.

Each creature that begins its turn in the line has to make a Strength saving throw; if it fails, it is pushed 15 feet away from you in the direction of the line.

Any creature in the line that advances closer to you must spend 2 feet of movement for every 1 foot it moves.

The gust spreads gas or vapor, putting out nearby candles, torches, and other exposed flames. It has a 50% chance of putting out protected flames, such as those of lanterns, by making them dance wildly.

You have the option to alter the line’s direction as a bonus action on each of your turns before the spell expires.

Spell Type – Control

Which Classes Can Pick Gust of Wind 5e?

Traditional classes, such as the Druid, Ranger, Sorcerer, and Wizard, can freely unlock Gust of Wind.

The Druid, Sorcerer, and Wizard can unlock and use Gust of Wind at level 3, while the Ranger can only unlock it at level 5.

Subclasses, like the Tempest Domain (Cleric), The Genie (Warlock), and The Fathomless (Warlock), also freely unlock Gust of Wind.

All the subclasses above can unlock and use Gust of Wind at level 3.

Is Gust of Wind Good in 5e?

Gust of Wind can be seen as a very effective spell, but only in certain situations. It isn’t a spell you’ll be able to use in every encounter effectively.

If your style isn’t only using spells at certain times, Gust of Wind might not be the spell for you.

Note: It also requires creativity to be used to its full potential.

Advantages – Gust of Wind

Class Availability

Gust of Wind can be freely unlocked by some of the most common classes (Ranger and Wizard).

That means there is a high probability that you can have a player who can unlock Gust of Wind. The only question is, will they?

Range (AoE)

Gust of Wind has a range of self (in a 60-foot-line and 10 feet wide). The wind will affect every enemy in that range (who starts their turns there), meaning it has quite a large AoE ability.

Note: Creatures who try to move must also use 2 feet of movement to move 1 foot closer to you.

Disadvantages – Gust of Wind

Concentration Spell

Gust of Wind is a Concentration spell, meaning players have to stay focused to keep it active for its duration (1 minute).

If they were to take damage or try and cast another Concentration spell, Gust of Wind would be canceled. Players are limited to one Concentration spell, so be aware of which one you choose.

Note: If you have other spells that use Concentration, figure out which will be best in your given scenario.

Uses an Action

Actions are significant in 5e. They enable players to make attacks, cast spells, and move.

While there are different actions, everyday actions are the most common, meaning many spells need them to be cast.

Don’t waste your spell slot before you battle. Know what spell you are using and why you are using it.

If you were to waste a precious action, then you might be left at a disadvantage to others in the battle!

Similar Spells to Gust of Wind 5e

Spells similar to Gust of Wind are Control Winds (5th-level), Gust (Cantrip), Investiture of Wind (6th-level), and Whirlwind (7th-level).

When or How Should You Use Gust of Wind?

Pushing Creatures

The most common way for players to use Gust of Wind would be to push creatures or objects away.

This is the easiest way to use this spell. You can quickly push enemies off of ledges, into control spells, or against walls. Each method creates space and can potentially kill an enemy if used correctly.

Speed Up Allies

Going up against the wind of this spell slows you, so in theory, it should speed you up if cast against your back.

Speeding up your martial allies puts pressure on the enemy frontline, as they can move at incredible speeds.

You can also use this on allies if they want to retreat, giving them a better chance to outrun enemies chasing them.

Extinguish Light Sources

If you’re in a castle or dungeon, try extinguishing any light hanging from the walls.

All the enemies will be left blind, while your party can silently sneak past them or take them out without a sound.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Gust of Wind Affect Ranged Attacks?

It can affect ranged attacks. Since arrows or bolts travel through the air, strong winds can significantly affect them.

Using a ranged attack in strong winds (like the spell creates) can land you a -4 disadvantage on them.

Note: In some cases this is DM specific.

Will Gust of Wind Move With You?

Technically, Gust of Wind does move with you. This is due to the spell being centered on yourself and the wind blowing from the center.

Note: You can also move the spell using a bonus action if the direction doesn’t suit your needs.

Final Thoughts

Spells like Gust of Wind don’t only provide excellent combat utility but out-of-combat utility as well.

Whether you want to stop enemies, propel party members, or just annoy your friends, Gust of Wind can do it all.

It also provides straightforward casting with great versatility that creative D&D players will appreciate. So if you have it in you, try using Gust of Wind. Maybe you’ll become the next air bender!