Wave Characteristics of the Laccadive Sea (Lakshadweep)

Waves in the Laccadive Sea were recorded during March-April 1978 (31st cruise of R. V. Gaveshani) using a ship-borne wave recorder. Zero-crossing period, significant wave height and spectral width parameter were determined and their distributions studied. Predominant significant wave height and zero-crossing period were 50 to 70 cm and 8 to 8.5 sec respectively. Seasonal variations in the wave characteristics for the area were also studied using the historical data reported by the ships. The predominant wave periods and wave heights were 5-6 sec and 0.5 to 1.5 m respectively during the fair weather season (October-May) and 5-9 sec and 1-3 m respectively during the rough weather season (June-September). A wide range of wave heights 0.5-5 m occurred during the rough season.