The image shown here is the Southern California swell prediction generated by the CDIP (Coastal Data Information Program) for Dec. 3, 1996. Examine the image, then answer the questions below, which also appear in your lab handout.
There are a number of important features to notice in the image shown above. First, notice that the wave height is indicated in various colors, and that a color scale at the lower part of the image shows what colors correspond to which wave heights. Second, there is a semi-circular diagram in the left part of the image which shows, graphically, the direction and period of the swell or swells approaching Southern California. Finally, to the right, notice the data concerning the direction, period and height of the waves approaching Southern California.
Notice the high waves along the northwest sides of some of the offshore islands.
How large are these waves? (Please indicate the height in feet.)
Why are the waves so large in these locations? (Refer back to the introduction if you need to.)
Now examine the California coastline. What is the approximate latitude and longitude of the area where the highest waves are predicted to occur?
How large are those waves?