Superimposed wind-waves in the Red Sea

The waves in the Red Sea are associated with the prevailing wind systems, frequently in combination with regional and local wind conditions. Measured waves from a buoy located in the central Red Sea show the presence of multi-directional waves; those propagated from distant areas in the northern Red Sea as well as those generated locally within the central Red Sea. On a diurnal cycle, superimposition occurs that leads to an increase in significant wave height and decrease in mean wave period. Monthly features of superimposed waves have been analysed based on a correlation analysis. The analysis has been further extended to the entire Red Sea by implementing a third generation spectral wave model, WAVEWATCH III. Monthly and spatial variability of the superimposed and non-superimposed have been discussed. The waves at 58% area of the Red Sea are dominated by unidirectional waves, while the 28% area is dominated by superimposed waves and 14% area has nearly the same contribution of two wave systems.