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Square Waves Are an Actual Thing — and If You See
Them, You Should Stay Away From the Water
The phenomenon is thought to have
caused many shipwrecks over the years.
Like
sand on the beach and a breeze in the air, waves are an expected and welcome
part of any trip to the sea. They’re fun to splash in, soothing to listen to,
and thrilling to ride, if surfing’s your thing.
But anyone who’s ever seen The
Perfect Storm or The Poseidon Adventure knows that not all waves are
so friendly. And unfortunately, the ones that might cause danger don’t all come
with a glaring warning sign on them.
That’s the case with the beautiful
phenomenon of a cross sea. Formed both in the open ocean and nearer to
coastlines, the rare event happens when wind from two separate weather systems
collides, causing waves to move in competing directions. When the wave systems
intersect, it creates a grid-like pattern in the sea, reminiscent of squares on
a chessboard.
When on land, the unusual sight is
cause for a photo opp. But while the waves might seem like they’re moving
gently along, it’s definitely not something you’d want to be caught in. That’s
because cross seas are notorious for creating powerful rip tides that are
difficult to escape from. (Imagine having to dodge waves from both sides at one
time while swimming.) According to the European
Space Agency, cross seas are also thought to have caused a large
number of shipwrecks over the years, with waves that
can reach nearly 10 feet high.
While the unique wave patterns can
occur anywhere, they tend to stick closer to shore and hang around for just a
short moment. Isle de Ré, an island off the west coast of France, however, is
said to have a better chance of seeing the rare squares due to its geology. So,
if you’re hoping to witness this fascinating scene in person, you might want to
head to Europe (and keep your eyes peeled at your hometown beach, too).
Just remember to stay out of the
water.
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Interestingly, Isle de Re is the site of some major boat building operations as well as the shipyard where the reproduction frigate Hermione was built.
So now you have been warned!
Until next time,
Fair Winds (without square waves, please!)
Old Salt
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