Height-Period Joint Probabilities in Hurricane Camille

An ocean data gathering program in the Gulf of Mexico described by Patterson (5) obtained continuous wave records from six offshore petroleum production platforms during the passage of several hurricanes and tropical storms. In one of the severest hurricanes on record (Camille, August, 1969) wave heights of 23 m (75 ft) were observed close to the eye in the right front quadrant where the highest waves were generated. This note describes the joint probability of wave heights and periods as Camille approached and passed near one of the six platforms. Of practical importance is the probability of extreme wave heights and periods for use with forecasts and hindcasts of hurricane waves. This analysis was motivated by a need to estimate probabilities of wave height and period combinations which produce bottom pressures capable of triggering submarine mudslides off the Mississippi River delta. The role of waves in causing submarine mudslides has been described by Henkel (3).