Data Set of Wind–Waves Interactions in the Gulf of Aqaba

Abstract

A data set containing detailed measurements of wind velocity and wave fields, conducted in the Gulf of Aqaba, near the city of Eliat, is made freely available. The set is highly suitable to be used in students’ education and specialists’ training in the field of physical oceanography and wind–waves interactions. It contains measurements of the wind velocity field performed by two sonic anemometers, of water surface fluctuations conducted by a spatial array of staff wave gages, and of records of the water column pressure conducted by a submerged pressure gage. Recorded simultaneously at high temporal (80[Formula: see text]Hz) and spatial resolutions, these data offer examination of various physical processes governing the wind–waves evolution. The diurnal fluctuations of the wind forcing allow examination of the wave field evolution during the growth, steady, and decay periods. Measured at two heights above the mean water level, wind velocity component records are suitable for deriving important wind flow characteristics. Examples of relevant processing methods and techniques are provided, including representative results, to serve as a reference point for educational use. These include estimations of the mean and fluctuating quantities and their daily variations, spectral analysis, and higher order statistical analysis.