Last week in Florida, a rare wave pattern appeared in the Gulf of Mexico near Anna Maria Island. Rick Thress, who calls the barrier island in Manatee County home, captured the square waves -- also known as cross sea or cross waves -- on video via his drone.
“Have you ever had the pleasure of seeing Square waves? I had the pleasure in photographing and videoing via drone the square waves in the Gulf of Mexico down here on the island I call home. Anna Maria Island Florida” -- Rick Thress
Public figure James Spann is an AMS-certified media meteorologist and host of the WeatherBrains podcast with over 1 million followers. He posted Rick's video and I had the pleasure of stumbling across it.
Square Waves
Square waves are not a frequently seen phenomenon. They form on the surface of the ocean and appear gentle. However, looks are deceiving.
When two different sets of waves converge at different angles, grids form. The squares occur when large swells travel without wind disruption as waves can travel for hundreds of miles. In the right weather conditions, they'll generally form in coastal areas.
The square waves can be mesmerizing. It is recommended that you leave the water immediately due to its hidden power. These cross waves are difficult to navigate. Not only are they challenging to swimmers and surfers, but boats and large ships can be forced off course.
Square waves pack danger when they generate power rip currents. They can reach 10 feet high -- a large percentage of shipping accidents have occurred in the cross waves.
The square waves do lose energy as they travel. Eventually, the pattern fades away.
What to Do
There are dangers and risks associated with the square waves. If you see the pattern, you may have to leave the water. You'll be safer closer to shore.
They are not permanent.
Science and Speculation
Tyler Hansen, aka "Fittest Flat Earther" created a video - with a twist - of the recent appearance of Florida's square waves. I've come across his video posted on several social media sites.
He offers his opinion on the grid-like cross waves that appeared on the water off the nearly 7-mile-long coastline of Anna Maria Island and believes there's more to consider beyond the science.
I had never seen or even heard of square waves. I'm curious if others have so let me know in the comments and thank you!
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