Which wind parameter is not included in the METAR/SPECI wind element?

The METAR/SPECI wind element provides critical information about wind conditions, which is essential for pilots and meteorologists. This element includes the direction from which the wind is coming, the speed of the wind, and mentions if the wind is variable. The inclusion of direction (measured in degrees) and speed (often measured in knots) allows users to assess wind conditions accurately.

Additionally, variable winds are stated when the wind shifts in direction significantly and does not follow a clear prevailing pattern. Squalls, on the other hand, refer to a sudden increase in wind speed, usually accompanied by precipitation, but they are not specifically included as a parameter within the standard METAR wind reporting format. Squalls can be significant but are described separately in weather reporting rather than being part of the wind element itself. Therefore, highlighting squalls as not included in the METAR/SPECI wind element correctly identifies a parameter that does not fit within this standardized reporting framework.