A Category 4 wave is defined by specific measurements of its wave face height and the height of the underlying swell. These classifications are often used in oceanography and surfing to categorize the size and potential impact of waves.
A Category 4 wave is characterized by:
- Wave Face Height: 10 to 15 feet
- Swell Height: 9 to 10.7 feet
Understanding Wave Measurements
To clarify, here's what these terms mean in the context of wave classification:
- Wave Face Height: This refers to the vertical distance from the bottom of the wave trough to the top of the wave crest. It's the most direct measure of a wave's immediate height from a surfing or visual perspective.
- Swell Height & Period: Swell height measures the average height of ocean waves generated by distant weather systems. The period refers to the time it takes for two consecutive wave crests to pass a fixed point. While the period is part of the column header, the provided data for Category 4 specifically gives a height range.
Wave Category Breakdown
For better context, here's how Category 4 fits within a broader wave categorization system:
| Category | Wave Face Height | Swell Height & Period |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 7.5-10 ft | 6-8.9 ft |
| 4 | 10-15 ft | 9-10.7 ft |
| 5 | 15-20 ft | 10.8-14.1 ft |
| 6 | 20-25 ft | >14.2 ft |
This categorization helps in understanding the scale and characteristics of different wave conditions.
