SWELL

Definition

• Waves that continue after the generating wind has ceased or changed direction. Swells also are generated by ships and boats in the form of wakes, and sometimes by underwater disturbances such as volcanoes or earthquakes. The waves have a uniform and orderly appearance characterized by smooth, rounded, regularly spaced wave crests.

References

• Seaplane, Skiplane, and Float Ski Equipped Helicopter Operations Handbook, Federal Aviation Administration, 2024