System of recording wind velocity, devised by Francis Beaufort in 1806. It is a numerical scale ranging from 0 to 17, calm being indicated by 0 and a hurricane by 12; 1317 indicate degrees of hurricane force.
In 1874 the scale received international recognition; it was modified in 1926. Measurements are made at 10 m/33 ft above ground level.
Black recalls the country's tragic past. White reflects the Georgians' hopes for the future. Dark red is the national colour and is said to represent happiness. Effective date: 14 November 1990.