Extreme High Swell Events on the Moroccan Atlantic Coast

4.0 Case Study 1 » 4.2 Step 1: Assess the Current Atmospheric and Marine Situation » 4.2.9 WW111 Wave Field Analysis

The WAVEWATCH III wave field analysis for 6 January at 1200 UTC shows a maximum wave height area moving northeasterly towards the Moroccan coast. Significant wave height values are about 9 to 14 m in the Atlantic Ocean and about 3 to 4 m along the coast of Morocco.

WaveWatch III Significant Wave Height Analysis 6 Jan 2014 1200 UTC

Question

Based on the analysis, how do you think the marine conditions might evolve in the next few hours in the Moroccan coastal areas? The swell heights will reach:

Given the propagation process and wave direction, the maximum wave height will progress from northwest to southeast. The Moroccan coastal areas will experience hazardous marine conditions, with wave heights greater than 6 m. A warning should be issued in accordance with the marine forecast process.

Please make a selection.