>
What are square waves and are they dangerous? The cross-patterned sea phenomenon that can be disastrous for swimmers
- Everything you need to know about this strange watery phenomenon
You may have heard of a traditional rip current, but these mesmerizing square waves may have eluded you.
But as gentle and intriguing as these waves may seem, if you come across them while enjoying yourself in the sea, it’s time to get on the safe side quickly.
There are many different types of waves – and these cubed waves are not a tsunami – but it’s important to avoid them, as they can be disastrous for surfers, swimmers, and sea enthusiasts.
So what exactly are square waves? Why are they dangerous? And why is it best to avoid them? Read on to learn more about the watery phenomenon.
Île de Ré in France (pictured) is a great example of how to enjoy square waves from the safety of the country
What are Square Waves?
These cubical squares in the sea are known as ‘cross seas’. They occur when different weather conditions moving in two different directions collide.
In 2010, the European Space Agency said cruising waves are actually quite common, as they occur when “two swell systems” coexist.
And scientists also say this strange watery occurrence is an example of the Kadomstev-Petviashvili comparison in the game.
These shifting winds allow older waves to pass through, and instead of breaking on shore, they collide with more recent waves.
The transfer of energy created in the water creates a continuous disturbance that creates these crests, which turn into squares.
So the squares are made, all because of two different sets of wind going against each other.
They can also be found in both the ocean and the coast.
Why are they dangerous
This checkerboard-like pattern on the watery surface looks beautiful to the human eye, but can be risky for surfers and swimmers who want to enjoy the waves.
But the real risk to swimmers, small boats and surfers comes when large transverse waves form, as transverse waves can sometimes reach 10 feet – that’s a whopping 10 feet.
The larger waves from different directions can even cause boats to collect water.
It has also been shown that an inordinate number of accidents occur as a result of these square waves, including a number of shipwrecks caused by ‘cross seas’ according to The sun.
If you find yourself caught in a square wave because you didn’t recognize it in time, it can be quite dangerous.
The ‘swell’ gets much bigger and you could desperately try to escape two competing currents.
Similarly, waves around the world are getting stronger due to climate change. This, in combination with the ever-rising sea level, means that the risk of damage to our coasts is increasing.
The transfer of energy created by the wind into the water creates a continuous disturbance that creates these crests, which turn into squares (pictured)
These checkerboard-like waves are usually seen in water that is slightly shallower. But they can be very dangerous when swimming or on a boat as they can reach 3 meters in height
The With office have offered the following advice to help people avoid getting caught in those misleading rip currents, which also applies to misleading square waves:
- keep calm – don’t panic
- if you can stand, don’t wade
- hold your board or bouncer to help you float
- raise your hand and call for help
- never try to swim directly into the rip or you will get exhausted
- swim parallel to the beach until clear of the rip, then head to shore
- If you see someone else in trouble, alert the lifeguards or call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
Where are they common?
It is much safer and advised to safely enjoy the sight of this aquatic phenomenon, with two feet and ten toes on land.
If you want a chance to spot these square waves, it might be worth noting that they are usually seen in water that is slightly shallower.
The west coast of Île de Ré in France is riddled with these types of waves and is a great example of how to safely enjoy this beautiful natural event.
These square waves have also been seen in Tel Aviv, Israel.