Temporal Variations in Wave Systems in a Multimodal Sea State in the Coastal Waters of the Eastern Arabian Sea
Abstract
Multimodal waves can significantly impact ocean�atmosphere interactions and affect coastal ecosystems. Due to the presence of waves created in different geographical areas, many wave systems coexist in coastal seas. Based on data collected with a directional waverider buoy, this study investigates fluctuations in multimodal sea states from March 2010 to May 2020 in the eastern Arabian Sea. The watershed-based spectral partitioning method is used to analyze 2D wave spectra obtained from measurements. Four-wave systems are present during pre- and post-monsoon periods, and three systems are detected during the monsoon (June�September). Interannual changes in significant wave height and peak wave period of different systems are investigated, revealing the maximum interannual variability of all wave systems in the inter-monsoon periods (May and October). The most energetic system during the pre-monsoon period is wind seas from the northwest direction, whereas during monsoon, swells from the southwest-west dominate. This pattern is similar across a spatial distance of 570 km along the western coastal waters of India. In the post-monsoon period, both systems (wind seas and swells) are present, with swells having slightly higher intensity.
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