Measurements of low‐frequency wind‐generated ambient noise in the deep ocean

Southern Hemisphere oceans provide unique conditions for the measurement of low‐frequency wind‐generated ambient noise due to their relatively low shipping densities. Results (10–500 Hz) for a single location in the South Fiji Basin [R. W. Bannister, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 60(S1), S20(A)(1976)] supported the two principal noise generation mechanisms that have been suggested: turbulence, bubbles and spray. For a given local wind speed, higher noise levels were observed than have been reported for the North Atlantic Ocean. This paper is an analysis of wind‐generated noise data from additional sites throughout the Tasman Sea—Fiji Basin region. Variation in measured level is compared to wind speed, seastate, and propagation conditions. It appears that local wind‐speed is not an absolute indicator of wind generated ambient noise level. [Work supported by NAVSEA.]