CE-680 Assignment
Wave conditions in the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal
Introduction
The wave conditions in the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal are significantly
influenced by a combination of seasonal monsoon winds, cyclonic activity,
and geographical features.
Below is the comprehensive overview of the average annual, seasonal, and
extreme wave conditions in these regions.
Arabian Sea
Annual Average Conditions:
The Arabian Sea experiences moderate wave heights throughout the year,
with average significant wave heights ranging from 1 to 2 meters. Wave
directions are predominantly influenced by the monsoon seasons, with
westerly waves during the southwest monsoon and easterly waves during
the northeast monsoon.
Seasonal Conditions:
Southwest Monsoon (June to September): This period sees the highest
wave activity, with significant wave heights often exceeding 2 meters,
sometimes reaching up to 4-5 meters in extreme cases. The strong westerly
winds contribute to rough sea conditions.
Northeast Monsoon (November to February): The wave activity is
relatively calmer, with significant wave heights typically ranging from 1 to 2
meters. The winds are weaker and blow from the northeast.
Inter-monsoon Periods (March to May and October): These periods
experience transitional wave conditions, with moderate wave heights and
changing wave directions. The wave heights are generally lower than during
the monsoon seasons.
Extreme Conditions:
The Arabian Sea is prone to cyclonic storms, particularly during the premonsoon (April to June) and post-monsoon (September to December)
periods. These cyclones can generate extremely high waves,
sometimes exceeding 6 meters, and can cause significant coastal
erosion and damage.
Bay of Bengal
The Bay of Bengal has higher average wave heights compared to the
Arabian Sea, primarily due to its exposure to more frequent and intense
cyclonic activity. Average significant wave heights range from 1.5 to 2.5
meters throughout the year.
Average Annual Conditions:
The Bay of Bengal has higher average wave heights compared to the
Arabian Sea, primarily due to its exposure to more frequent and intense
cyclonic activity. Average significant wave heights range from 1.5 to 2.5
meters throughout the year.
Seasonal Conditions:
Southwest Monsoon (June to September): Similar to the Arabian Sea, this
period sees heightened wave activity with significant wave heights often
exceeding 3 meters. The waves are primarily generated by strong
southwesterly winds.
Northeast Monsoon (November to February): Wave heights are generally
lower, ranging from 1 to 2 meters, influenced by the weaker northeasterly
winds.
Inter-monsoon Periods (March to May and October): These periods have
moderate wave heights with varying directions. Wave heights are usually
lower than during the monsoon seasons.
Extreme Conditions:
The Bay of Bengal is highly susceptible to severe cyclonic storms, which
occur mainly during the pre-monsoon (April to June) and post-monsoon
(September to November) periods. These cyclones can produce extremely
high waves, often exceeding 7 meters, and are associated with significant
storm surges and coastal flooding.
Name: Mukesh Kumar
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