Deep Water Swell and Spectral Wave Decay in Opposing Winds

Abstract

The results of the writers' opposing wind laboratory experiments are developed for use in practical wave prediction problems. Relationships are presented for the decay of swell in opposing wind situations. An opposing wind source term for the radiative transfer equation is also developed which should enhance predictions in rapidly turning winds. The results indicate that steep high frequency wave components of the spectrum decay rapidly, leaving a narrow‐banded spectral representation. The results are in good agreement with the limited field data available.