Equation co-written with AI reveals monster rogue waves form 'all the time'

Dec 19, 2023 ·

Artificial intelligence (AI) models are increasingly being used to detect and predict rogue waves. Rogue waves are large, unpredictable waves that can suddenly appear in the open ocean, or other bodies of water, and they can cause serious damage to vessels, property, and lives. Traditional methods have been limited in their ability to detect and predict rogue waves, but advances in AI models have made it possible to better understand them.

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have developed an AI-based model to identify rogue waves with higher accuracy than traditional methods. The model uses machine learning algorithms and satellite imagery data from the European Space Agency’s Copernicus Marine Environment Monitoring Service (CMEMS). The model is trained on existing historical data which provides a more accurate view of the underlying physical mechanisms driving rogue wave formation. This data is combined with automated weather forecasting, allowing the model to forecast the likelihood of future rogue wave events.

The researchers also implemented the model in real-time for real-world observations. They found that it was able to accurately predict the occurrence of rogue waves up to six hours before its arrival. This advance will give mariners time to prepare for and take protective measures against rogue waves.

In addition to predicting rogue waves, the AI model can also be used to better understand the physics behind rogue wave formation. A deeper understanding of these physical processes will help scientists develop better predictive models which can further reduce the impacts of rogue waves on maritime operations.

By using AI models to identify and predict rogue waves, researchers are hoping to improve maritime safety and reduce loss of property and life associated with these dangerous phenomena. While there is still a long way to go, this research suggests that AI has great potential to improve our understanding of rogue waves and protect lives.