G
Wind blowing at speeds of 63–75 km/h.
This approximates the height of a pressure level above mean sea level. Meteorologists often use geopotential heights to analyse the state of the atmosphere at different levels above the ground.
If hail larger than 5 cm across is expected, we use the words 'giant hail' in our forecast.
Total short-wave (solar) energy received on a horizontal surface on the ground. It comes direct from the sun and indirectly from elsewhere in the sky, where it can be scattered downwards by clouds, dust particles and so on.
Wind at the gradient level, about 1 km above the Earth's surface. It's the level most representative of air flow in the lower atmosphere, immediately above the layer affected by surface friction. The gradient level is free of local wind and topographic effects, such as sea breezes and downslope winds.
Natural warming process of the Earth. When the sun's energy reaches the Earth, some is reflected back to space and the rest is absorbed. The absorbed energy warms the Earth's surface, which sends heat energy back toward space as longwave radiation. This is partially trapped by greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane and water vapor. They radiate the energy in all directions, warming the Earth's surface and atmosphere.
Enhanced greenhouse effect
This term refers to the addition of more heat-trapping gases to the atmosphere. The extra gases are mainly due to the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas). Other sources, such as land clearing, make smaller contributions. Increased concentrations of these gases in the atmosphere are contributing to warming of Earth's surface.
Pattern of radar echoes from fixed objects on the ground, such as buildings or hills.
Sudden increase of wind for a short period, usually a few seconds.