When Is the Best Time for Surfing in California?
October 17, 2024
Hasanuddin University Lecturer Serves as Speaker at IMK Seminar 2024 at Universiti Malaysia Perlis
Dr. Agustinus Ribal, M.Sc., a lecturer at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), Hasanuddin University, served as a speaker at the Institute of Engineering Mathematics (IMK) Seminar 2024 Series 9 organized by Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP).
The event took place on Thursday, October 17, 2024, from 10:30 to 11:30 AM local time at IMK Seminar Room 2, Pauh Putra Campus, Universiti Malaysia Perlis. The seminar was also streamed online via Google Meet and YouTube Live, allowing participants from various locations to join.
During the seminar, Dr. Agustinus Ribal delivered a talk titled “When Is the Best Time for Surfing in California?” The presentation discussed ocean wave dynamics along the California coast using the global wave model WAVEWATCH III.
The study was conducted by analyzing various ocean wave characteristics, particularly the wave period, which plays a crucial role in coastal activities such as surfing and navigation. To ensure model accuracy, simulation data were validated against multiple observational sources, including buoy data from the National Data Buoy Center (NDBC), the Coastal Data Information Program (CDIP), and wave measurements by the University of Miami.
The analysis revealed seasonal variations in wave characteristics along the California coastline. Although summer generally offers more favorable weather conditions, wave activity tends to be diminished. Conversely, winter features stronger, longer-period swells, making it more suitable for surfing.
The seminar was moderated by Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Wan Zuki Azman Wan Muhamad. This event provided a platform for exchanging knowledge and academic experience, particularly in applied mathematics, ocean wave modeling, oceanography, and their applications in supporting coastal management and activities.
The involvement of Hasanuddin University's lecturer in this international academic event strengthens institutional networks and opens broader opportunities for collaboration between Hasanuddin University and Universiti Malaysia Perlis in education, research, and scientific development.