Synoptic patterns associated with the highest wind-waves at the mouth of the Río de la Plata estuary

► We choose the events with highest wind waves at the Río de la Plata (RDP) mouth. ► We analyze the weather patterns associated to the selected events. ► Fifteen energetic events were selected from wave parameters data series (1996-2009). ► Twelve of the fifteen were associated to cyclones located in the adjacent region. ► Three of fifteen were linked to the occurrence of post-frontal anticyclones. ► In almost all the selected cases were observed the presence of intense wind gusts. ► The role of gusts in the wave development at the RDP mouth is discussed.