Observation of Effects of a Large Wave

In summary, the conversation revolved around a gaff-rigged topsail schooner named Tradewind and its encounter with a rogue wave in sub-Antarctic waters. The skipper pointed out the damage caused by the wave, including a bent steel gaff, a missing radar mounted 44 feet above the waterline, and buckled steel plates on the deckhouse. The conversation also sparked an interest in rogue waves and their potential for causing damage to ships.
  • #1
ImaLooser
489
4
"Many years ago I spent a few weeks on the gaff-rigged topsail schooner Tradewind. I noticed one of the gaffs had a distinct bow in it and asked the skipper about it. He said they were hit broadside on by a rogue wave in sub-Antarctic waters south of New Zealand. The steel gaff had been bent by the force of the water. He pointed to the radar, mounted high on the foremast. It had been swept away by the wave, he said. And the radar was 44 feet above the waterline. He also mentioned the wave had enough force to buckle the steel plates of the deckhouse. It was quarter inch steel plate, he said, on 18 inch frames. And the pressure had been enough to dent the plates inwards between the frames. I had a look at the deckhouse and you could certainly see that the plates were buckled inwards.
 
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  • #2
Cool. And?
 
  • #3
Simon Bridge said:
Cool. And?

It's, like, you know, data.
 
  • #4
"He pointed to the radar, mounted high on the foremast. It had been swept away by the wave, he said. And the radar was 44 feet above the waterline."

OK, ImaLooser, you have given us some "data". Thank you. How are we to interpret the above data? Shall we think the "rogue wave" was over 44 feet in height? Or, could the ship have been listing hard over to one side and a wave of much less height tore off the radar set? Just curious.

Cheers,
Bobbywhy
 
  • #5
Maybe the ship needed a new radar and insurance would cover "rogue wave" and not "man with hammer"?
 
  • #6
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What causes large waves?

Large waves can be caused by a variety of factors, including strong winds, earthquakes, underwater landslides, and changes in tidal patterns. These factors can all contribute to the formation of large waves in the ocean.

How are large waves measured?

Large waves are typically measured using a device called a wave buoy, which records the height, period, and direction of waves in the ocean. Other methods of measurement include using radar, satellites, and visual observations from ships or aircraft.

What are the effects of large waves on coastal areas?

Large waves can have significant impacts on coastal areas, including erosion of beaches and cliffs, damage to infrastructure and structures, and danger to human life. They can also disrupt marine ecosystems and affect coastal economies.

Can large waves be predicted?

While it is not yet possible to predict exactly when or where a large wave will occur, scientists and weather forecasters use data and models to make predictions about the likelihood of large waves in certain areas. However, these predictions are not always accurate and large waves can still occur unexpectedly.

How can we prepare for the effects of large waves?

There are several ways to prepare for the effects of large waves, including building sea walls and other protective structures, implementing evacuation plans for coastal residents, and monitoring weather and ocean conditions to anticipate potential threats. It is also important to educate the public about the potential dangers of large waves and how to stay safe during a wave event.

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