These are the warnings of a beautiful, rare but extremely dangerous wave.
What is a “square wave”?
Most waves come to the shore and break in a horizontal and parallel direction to the coastline.
However, in some areas of the world, there are waves that create a pattern resembling a chessboard on the water surface.
This phenomenon is very rare but extremely dangerous. When viewed from above, it looks like a mesh under the water forming square wave crests.
The “square wave” looks beautiful but is actually incredibly dangerous and has even caused shipwrecks, according to Surfer Today.
What causes the formation of “square waves”?
“Square waves” occur when two opposing wave systems meet and intersect at right angles.
These contrasting wave systems originate from two contrasting weather systems, such as when a high-pressure system with dry, cool air collides with a low-pressure system with lots of clouds and moisture, according to The Rain Forest Site.
Although weather systems usually start far apart from each other, the waves can travel thousands of miles. When the two systems meet, they collide and create waves that exceed 45 degrees.
Do not go swimming if you see “square waves” Image: Shutterstock |
Why are “square waves” extremely dangerous
From above, they appear calm, but in reality, this phenomenon is often associated with very strong whirlpools, making it extremely difficult to escape.
If someone gets caught in this wave, it is hard for them to escape because they will be fighting against two different waves at the same time.
Therefore, if you see “square waves” in the sea, it is best to immediately get ashore.
“Square waves” can also cause boating accidents and shipwrecks.
According to the European Space Agency, the cross waves off the coast have even caused some shipwrecks in recent years due to the waves colliding.
“Square waves” are relatively rare and can appear and disappear within a few minutes on many beaches around the world.
“Square waves” can form offshore as well as near the coast and are more likely to occur in shallow water areas, according to The Sun.
However, this strange wave pattern does not occur regularly and is very difficult to predict.
Especially when there are many congregations at the same time, if the angle of the wave is too shallow or if there is strong wind, it will be very difficult to see.
The most famous place in the world to admire square waves is Île de Ré – Ré Island – in France.
The island, located off the coast of La Rochelle, is a tourist attraction even though “square waves” only occur during certain times of the year, according to The Sun.
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“Beware of Square Waves: The Danger of Swimming in the Sea”
The Sun is warning swimmers to get out of the water immediately if they spot ‘square waves’. Swimmers should avoid entering the water if they notice ‘square waves’ present.
