The article discusses the most extreme rogue waves ever recorded, including the 85-foot Draupner wave and the 58-foot Ucluelet wave, highlighting their formation, dangers, and recent scientific insights into their chaotic nature and wind influence, with implications for improved prediction and marine safety.
The largest rogue wave ever recorded, reaching a height of 58 feet, appeared off the coast of British Columbia in November 2020 and has been named the Ucluelet wave. While not the tallest on record, it is considered the most extreme due to its unprecedented size and velocity relative to the surrounding calm waters. Rogue waves pose a significant danger to naval vessels, oil rigs, wind farms, and beachgoers. Scientists still have limited understanding of these waves, but they are expected to worsen with climate change.