cause October 1982 to show an anomalously northward predominance. The midsurf 
currents show large differences between 1981 (only previous year of measure- 
ment) and 1982 (Figure 24). Note that at the midsurf position, the 1981 
annual mean current was 6 cm/sec southward, while during 1982 the magnitude 
was about the same; but the flow was directed northward. 
All years combined 
95. Monthly and annual mean current values for the combined years of 
data are presented in Figure 25. All locations show consistent temporal 
variation as well as spatial differences. Near zero annual means for both lo- 
cations within the surf zone reflect the seasonal variations and frequent re- 
versals due to the varying wind and wave conditions at the FRF. These con- 
trast sharply with the strong southward predominance of the pier-end currents. 
2 
NORTHWARD LEGEND 
-o + 82 PIER END 
© 81-82 PIER SURF 
—» @ 80-82 BEACH 
ne 
4 
CURRENT SPEED (CH/SEC) 
o 
JPN FEB HAR APR MAY JUN AL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC ANNUAL 
TIME 
Figure 25. Mean surface currents at the FRF 
for 1980-1982 
Tide and Water Level Data 
96. Tide height values and water levels due to astronomical and meteo- 
rological forces are discussed in this section. 1982 results are followed by 
a comparison with previous data. All tidal heights are referenced to the 
local NGVD unless otherwise stated. 
60 
