Probability distributions of wave heights and periods in combined sea-states measured off the Spanish coast

Measured data from a deep-water location in the North of Spain is analyzed and combined sea states are identified. The probability of occurrence of these sea states is presented as a function of the significant wave height and peak period. Spectral parameters associated with a two-peaked spectral model are determined and based on the spectral parameters the sea states are classified into nine different types of two peaked spectra. The probability distributions of wave heights and periods are determined for each class and compared with several theoretical models based on linear wave theory.

► Measured data from a deep-water location in the North of Spain is analyzed.
► Probability of occurrence of combined sea states is presented.
► Probability distributions of wave heights and periods are determined for each class.
► Rayleigh distribution is found to generally overpredict the probability