mesoscale

/ˈmɛzoʊˌskeɪl/
adjective
  1. Relating to a medium size or scale, especially in meteorology referring to weather systems (like thunderstorms or squall lines) that are larger than a single storm but smaller than large-scale systems like hurricanes.
    • The meteorologist studied mesoscale weather patterns to predict the afternoon thunderstorms.
    • Mesoscale models are essential for forecasting local wind shifts and rain bands.
    • The research focused on mesoscale eddies in the ocean that affect nutrient distribution.
noun
  1. An intermediate scale or size, especially in meteorology or geography, between small local features and large regional ones.
    • In geography, the mesoscale includes features like river valleys and mountain ranges that are visible from an airplane.
    • The storm operated at a mesoscale, covering several counties but not the whole state.
    • Scientists use satellites to observe phenomena at the mesoscale that are too large for ground sensors.