[CF-metadata] proposed new standard name for storm surge residual

From: Jonathan Gregory <j.m.gregory>
Date: Wed, 9 May 2018 15:46:21 +0100

Dear Andy

> tidal_sea_surface_height_above_lowest_astronomical_tide
> Units: m
> "Sea surface height" is a time-varying quantity. "Height_above_X" means the vertical distance above the named surface X. "Chart datum" describes a local vertical reference from which depths displayed on a nautical chart are measured and which differs from mean sea level. For example, chart datum based on "lowest astronomical tide" or "mean lower low water". The tidal component of sea surface height describes the predicted variability of the sea surface due to astronomic forcing (chiefly lunar and solar cycles) and shallow water resonance of tidal components; for example as generated based on harmonic analysis, or resulting from the application of harmonic tidal series as boundary conditions to a numerical tidal model.

The definition above needs revision (simplification in fact) to remove "chart
datum".

> non_tidal_elevation_of_sea_surface_height
> Units: m
> "Sea surface height" is a time-varying quantity. "Non_tidal_elevation" describes the contribution to sea surface height variability made by processes other than astronomic forcing of the ocean and shallow water resonance of tidal components. These processes include storm surge (due to a combination of meteorological forcing of the ocean and interaction between the generated surge and tides), background ocean circulation, steric changes in the water column and, at higher frequencies, effects of surface ocean waves. The contribution made by these processes varies according to the averaging time of the variable as described by the " bounds" and "cell_methods" attributes.

I suggest, "These processes include storm surge (due to a combination of meteorological forcing of the ocean and interaction between the generated surge and tides), effects of surface ocean waves, and seasonal and climatic variation in ocean density and circulation."

Best wishes

Jonathan
Received on Wed May 09 2018 - 08:46:21 BST