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What does Wave Height mean


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When the NOAA announces wave hights they have a specific formula in mind. It is not the highest wave measured but it is an average of sorts.

Here is their formula:"Seas (waves) are reported as significant wave height, which is the average of the highest third of the waves. Individual wave heights may be more than twice the significant wave height."

I know, it is not encouraging, but it is probably the closest to a realistic forecast that anyone can get .

With this information in mind  I usually multiply the forecast average by 1.5 and that gives me an idea of what to expect on the water.

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Here's the image for wave height.

 

wave.gif.27e97360a1a8b368bbeb2fc274ceb240.gif

 

They do include the belly of the wave, but as rolmops included in his post: "Individual wave heights may be more than twice the significant wave height."

 

The buoy is reporting the significant wave height.  And yes, a reported wave height of 2 ft. on the buoy will probably look rougher on the water.

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