How extreme can ocean waves be?

Grade level: 4th – 6th grades

Skills: Measurement (Length) 

Related environmental issues: Climate Change

A research found that extreme ocean winds and wave heights have been increasing around the world over the last 30 years. The researchers warned that we would see more serious and frequent coastal flooding in the future if this trend continues.

  1. During extreme storms, ocean waves can be 20 meters high. 1 meter is equal to 3.28 feet. What is the wave height in feet?
  2. The height of each story of building is around 14 feet. The height of the extreme is as tall as how many story building?

Sources: University of Melbourne, 2019. OCEAN WAVES AND WINDS ARE GETTING HIGHER AND STRONGER

     

     

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    Answer keys

    1. 65.6 feet (20 x 3.28 = 65.6)
    2. 5 story building (65.6 ÷ 14 = 4.69)