Scientist debunks Bermuda Triangle myths with simple scientific explanation

The long-standing mystery of the Bermuda Triangle may finally have a straightforward explanation, according to a leading oceanographer.

The region—stretching between Florida, Puerto Rico, and Bermuda—has gained infamy for the unexplained disappearances of ships, planes, and their crews dating back to the 1800s.

While theories have ranged from alien abductions to supernatural forces, Dr Simon Boxall from the University of Southampton suggests a much more grounded cause: rogue waves.

“Rogue waves, which can reach heights of up to 100 feet, were only officially recognized in the 1990s,” explained Dr Boxall.

“They form when multiple storms converge, causing waves to combine and amplify—much like the splash effect you see in a bathtub when waves collide.”

While waves from a single storm typically max out at around 10 to 12 meters, rogue waves can be significantly larger and far more destructive. Dr Boxall described how these massive waves can fatally compromise large vessels, such as cargo ships or supertankers.

“If a wave is 30 meters high, and the distance between wave peaks is around 200 to 300 meters, a large ship could be suspended between two wave crests with no support in the middle—causing it to snap in two,” he said.

Despite their devastating potential, Dr. Boxall emphasized that rogue waves are rare and unlikely to be the cause of every disappearance in the Triangle. He believes most incidents are likely due to human error or severe weather conditions.

He also pointed out that the scientific community has largely dismissed the Bermuda Triangle legend. “Academics have ignored the area for years—because there’s really nothing special there,” said Dr Boxall. “But the public fascination keeps the myth alive.”

Satellite imaging is now being used more frequently to detect and study rogue waves, offering scientists better insight into these rare maritime phenomena.

Ultimately, Dr Boxall stressed that belief in the Bermuda Triangle mystery often overrides scientific facts.

“Once people make up their minds, it’s hard to convince them otherwise,” he said.