AI Predicts Occurrence of Rogue Waves

Study finds rogue waves are common and occur when two wave systems cross over and reinforce each other, challenging previous beliefs.

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen and University of Victoria have used artificial intelligence to develop a formula for predicting the occurrence of rogue waves, which are abnormally large and dangerous waves that occur in the ocean.
The researchers used data from more than a billion waves, collected from buoys in 158 different locations around US coasts and overseas territories, to create a model that can calculate the probability of rogue wave formation.
The study found that rogue waves are relatively common, with around one such wave occurring every day at any random location in the ocean.
The study also challenges the previous belief that rogue waves were caused by one wave absorbing another's energy. Instead, the researchers found that rogue waves occur when two wave systems cross over and reinforce each other for a brief moment.
The researchers' algorithm, which is publicly available, can be used by shipping companies and sailors to predict the likelihood of encountering a rogue wave and chart safer courses through the oceans.