There’s nothing quite like a day at the beach for some fun in the sun, especially when it comes to getting in the ocean.
The ocean can be a gorgeous adventure and even has some healing properties. However, it’s important to never underestimate the dangers it can pose. If the tides (quite literally) change and square waves form, it could be a sign that you are in immediate danger.
We guess it’s not always smooth sailing. Here’s why square waves are reasons to be scared.
Never let your guard down in the ocean
We know that playing in the ocean is so much fun for many people (us included)! Whether you’re just splashing around in the waves, chilling in an inner tube, or surfing like a pro, there’s something for everyone.
That said, it’s key that no matter what, we don’t let our guards down completely because it’s still an unstable part of nature (with sharks and stuff!).
Square waves usually spell trouble
Embed from Getty ImagesSquare waves, also known as cross seas, form swells that create a checkerboard pattern of waves that can get up to 10 feet tall with powerful multidirectional currents that collide, trapping people (and even boats).
It’s extremely difficult for someone to swim or sail out of them!
Square waves are rare, but they do happen
Embed from Getty ImagesFortunately, square waves are very rare. They typically gather and then dissipate within minutes in various locations around the world. That said, never underestimate the ocean or its wandering waves.
People gather in France to watch square waves at their finest
Embed from Getty ImagesWhile we definitely do not recommend making the mistake of trying to get in the water to experience these very dangerous and lethal swells, it may be cool (and quite safe) to watch them from a safe distance.
Tourists gather at the Isle of Ré in France, as the island is the world’s most famous place to watch the square waves.
New Zealand is also a hot spot to watch these waves
Embed from Getty ImagesCape Reinga in New Zealand has also become a popular spot to watch square waves from a distance. There, the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean meet in a unique display of varying currents.
Oceanographers continue to study square waves
Embed from Getty ImagesThe National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and entities around the world continue to study square waves and document how they’ve led to ship wrecks and other incidents.
There are a few signs if you’re swimming in square waves
Embed from Getty ImagesIt can be kind of hard to notice a checkerboard pattern in the water while you’re in it. Luckily, there are some signs that the waves have begun to display some high risk patterns while you’re in the water.
If you find yourself being pushed by several cross currents, it’s best to stay as calm as possible, and get out of the water immediately. The best guideline is to not swim too far from the shore and stick to shallow water.
Boats and ships are at higher risk of incident
Square waves can do the most damage to anything that’s far out in the ocean. So, unless someone is very deep in or it’s a very, very rare occurrence, boats and ships get the brunt of the damage when cross waves occur (rather than people).
RIP, boats and ships!
You can’t surf in square waves
Surfers from all over the world of all different skill-levels are often looking for new ways (and waves) to challenge them. Square waves are not the ones.
It may seem like common sense, but when currents are pushing against each other, there’s no way to surf without getting smacked around and trapped.
These are just too gnarly, dudes.
Let us know what you think in the comments
Is this the first time you’ve heard of square waves? Would you ever travel to try to see them yourself? Let us know below!
Last Updated on October 1, 2024 by Sarah Kester
