Wave Measurements at Eastern Green Canyon During Hurricane Ike

Wave measurements were obtained at an Eastern Green Canyon location during hurricane Ike in September 2009. The eye of the hurricane passed approximately 68 nautical miles to the South West of the measurement location. The significant wave height was above 30 ft for about 20 hours and above 40 ft for about 5.5 hours. The wave time series provide an insight into the wave field as the storm approaches and leaves the location. One of the interesting features observed was that there were repetitive sequences, where each sequence consisted of a period of increased wave energy followed by periods of reduced wave energy. Each sequence lasted approximately one hour. Measured wave crest, wave trough and wave height distributions are discussed. One unique wave event was observed. This event was characterized by a predictably-sized crest followed by a very deep trough.