![]() That said, you’re probably safe to visit your favorite beach! The good news about these harmful waves is that they don’t happen at most beaches. On the other hand, square-patterned waves result from changing winds that cause older waves to continue as opposed to breaking at shore. ![]() Riptides pull water out into the sea, usually resulting from a storm offshore. But, that’s about the extent of what they have in common. Riptides are similar to square waves in that they can be extremely dangerous for swimmers, surfers, etc. These terms are both used to describe what happens where two separate weather systems collide and create this unique wave pattern. Square-patterned waves create a cross pattern on the surface of the water. Yes, ‘square waves’ and ‘cross sea’ are used interchangeably. Are square waves and a cross sea the same? And, we’re here to answer those for you! The more you know about ocean dangers, the more careful you can be so that you can enjoy your time at the beach. If you’re just learning about square, or cross, waves, you probably have a few more questions. ![]() (Credit: LetsGetPhil/Shutterstock) Other FAQs About Square Waves Not-so-fun fact: Cross seas can result in waves up to 10 feet high! Square waves in the ocean happen when two opposing swells collide. Studies have shown that this strength does cause boating accidents, drownings, and other dangers in the water. Their collective energy is incredibly powerful when you’re dealing with battling waves. If you’ve ever stood on the shore and tried to wade through rolling breakers or tried to paddle through the surf on a surfboard, you know how strong typical waves can be as they work toward the shoreline.īelow the surface, the sea currents move toward one another at an angle, sometimes greater than 45 degrees. With that said, if you think there’s a possibility you’re witnessing two weather systems forming square waves, it’s time to head to shore immediately. This is because the two wave directions are more powerful than rip tides. Watching square waves might seem fascinating, but it’s essential to understand that they can be extremely dangerous. This is when a cross swell occurs, creating square waves. When we’re dealing with two waves systems, eventually two opposing swells collide. Sometimes the direction of the wind changes, and this also affects wave patterns. When there’s no wind to interrupt swells, waves continue to travel into the open ocean. These waves are caused by wind rippling the surface of the water. Typically, waves come in and crash parallel to the shore. In fact, they occur when two wave systems meet. While square waves appear to be caused by something underwater, that’s actually not the case. Wednesday Island, Australia - Situated at the most Northern point of Queensland, Australia known as the Torres Strait where the Arafura Sea and the Coral Sea collide.Final Thoughts What Causes Square Waves in the Ocean? Isle of Ré, France - This island off the coast of La Rochelle in France is probably the most famous location for spotting crossed sea waves.Ĭape Reinga, New Zealand - Located at the very Northern tip of New Zealand where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean collide. With swells coming from different angles and often refracting around the peninsular, this is where square waves can be found.Įxamples of where square waves have been found: Square waves are usually found at peninsular's of land where two oceans meet. ![]() So if you find yourself in a situation like this take action to get to shore immediately. The cross waves on the surface may not be too hazardous to contend with, but the current underwater can be treacherous. If you’re swimming, and you notice yourself in a cross sea wave situation, get out of the water immediately. WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU SWIM IN SQUARE WAVES? Squared waves should be avoided recreationally at all costs. Square waves are the result of two ocean swells colliding perpendicular to one another, and this cross sea wave collision results in powerful rip currents, and incredibly unpredictable waves - making them extremely dangerous.Ĭountless ships and lives have been lost to squared sea waves, so they’re not something to take lightly.Įven though on the surface cross sea waves may appear harmless, underneath the surface a turbulent battle is taking place underwater that should not be messed with under any circumstances. Yes, square waves can be very dangerous and here’s why: Just don't grab your board and hop in, as they're more dangerous than you might think. If you’re fortunate enough to see one first hand, lucky you, enjoy it. In fact square waves in the ocean have caused numerous shipping accidents over the years, and are a real danger to swimmers and surfers too. Although rare, and only made possible in certain unique conditions, they absolutely are real.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |