The average value of the wave height (vertical distance between trough and crest) is
reported, as obtained from the larger well-formed waves of the wave system observed.
The following guide show roughly which height of WIND WAVES (SEA) may be expected in
the OPEN sea, remote from land. In enclosed waters, or when near land with an off-shore
wind, wave heights will be smaller and the waves steeper. Furthermore the lag effect between
the wind getting up and the sea increasing should be borne in mind.
wind force probable height probable max. height
[Beaufort] [metres] [metres]
0 0 0
1 0.1 0.1
2 0.2 0.3
3 0.6 1
4 1 1.5
5 2 2.5
6 3 4
7 4 5.5
8 5.5 7.5
9 7 10
10 9 12.5
11 11.5 16
12 14 -