Re: [Paddlewise] "Sneaker Waves"

From: Dave Kruger <kdruger_at_pacifier.com>
Date: Sat, 19 Jan 2008 10:33:52 -0800
Craig Jungers wrote:

> Regardless of the cause, the name, or the science; there are 
> unpredictably large waves that seem to be associated with long-period (5 
> seconds and over) swells in the winter and spring months. If you paddle 
> in shallow watter exposed to the open ocean you should check for swell 
> periods on the offshore wave rider buoys and behave in whatever you 
> believe is your best interest.

Craig, I'd boost that 5 seconds to 8 to 12.  The wave period is pretty much 
always above 7-8 around here and maybe 50% of the time over 10-12.  Wave 
energy scales as the cube of the period (more or less), so small changes in 
period can generate big changes in wave intensity.

> One question I had is why so many of these "sneaker" wave problems seem 
> to occur in what is described as calm conditions. Long-period swells 
> must also occur on days when the wind blows, too. But maybe boaters tend 
> to stay farther from shoaling water when it's obviously rough.

I think that is the case:  it is association and perception, not 
"objective" observation.

> Didja launch the bartender yet?

Very close. Down to last minute outfitting, fueling, etc.  More photos soon 
on this site (go to the bottom):
http://www.pbase.com/bartenderdave/204_bartender_part_iii

-- 
Dave Kruger
Astoria, OR
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Received on Sat Jan 19 2008 - 10:34:37 PST

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