An oceanographer from the University of
Southampton posits that colossal, 100-foot waves formed by converging storms
are the likely culprit behind the infamous disappearances, offering a
scientific theory for a legend steeped in supernatural lore.
LONDON – After years of speculation surrounding one of the
world's most enduring maritime mysteries, an oceanographer believes he has
found a scientific explanation for the strange phenomena within the Bermuda Triangle.
Dr. Simon Boxall, an oceanographer at the
University of Southampton, claims his research has uncovered the secret behind
the notorious stretch of the North Atlantic Ocean. The region, located between southern Florida,
Puerto Rico, and the island of Bermuda, has long been blamed for a series of
mysterious events, including the disappearance of ships, deadly crashes, and alleged
supernatural activity.
The legend,
responsible for the supposed loss of over 50 ships and 20 aircraft, dates back
centuries. Historical accounts, including the journals of Christopher Columbus
from his 1492 voyage, noted irregular compass readings and strange lights in
the area.
However, Dr. Boxall
believes the disappearances can be explained by the presence of powerful "rogue waves."
Speaking in the
documentary series The Bermuda Triangle Enigma, he explained that the region is a perfect storm
for generating these massive waves. "There are storms to the south and
north, which come together," he said. "We've measured waves in excess
of 30 meters (nearly 100 feet)."
He argues that large
vessels caught in these conditions could be overwhelmed, with the hull
suspended between two towering wave crests, leading to immense structural
stress that could break the ship in half. "The bigger the ship, the more
damage is done," Boxall added.
Despite the
compelling theory, many in the scientific community remain unconvinced that a
mystery even exists to be solved. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) has previously stated that there is no
scientific basis for the legend. "There is no evidence that mysterious
disappearances occur with any greater frequency in the Bermuda Triangle than in
any other large, well-traveled area of the ocean," the agency has reported.