A cross sea (also referred to as a squared sea or square waves is a sea state of wind-generated ocean waves that form nonparallel wave systems. Cross seas have a large amount of directional spreading. [1] This may occur when water waves from one weather system continue despite a shift in wind. Waves generated by the new wind run at an angle to the old.
Two weather systems that are far from each other may create a cross sea when the waves from the systems meet at a place far from either weather system. Until the older waves have dissipated, they can present a perilous sea hazard. [2]
This sea state is fairly common and a large percentage of ship accidents have been found to occur in this state. [3] Vessels fare better against large waves when sailing directly perpendicular to oncoming surf. In a cross sea scenario, that becomes impossible as sailing into one set of waves necessitates sailing parallel to the other. [4]
Cross seas present a particular hazard for small boats and swimmers, since they can generate rip currents and waves up to 10 feet (3 m). [5]
A cross swell is generated when the wave systems are longer-period swells, rather than short-period wind-generated waves. [6]
