Definition
When a tidal stream runs against the wind, the waves are compressed: wavelength shortens while height increases, so steepness rises sharply and crests break. A 3 knot stream opposing a force 5 can produce conditions resembling a gale in still water. Notorious examples occur off headlands and in tidal races. The remedy is timing, planning passage through such areas with the stream running with the wind or at slack water.
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