What are "whitecaps," and what do they signify?

Whitecaps are the frothy, white-tipped waves that form when wind speed increases and disturbs the surface of the water. They signify that the wind is strong enough to create turbulence on the water's surface, leading to the formation of these white froths. The presence of whitecaps is generally an indicator of high wind speeds, which can be important for sailors, pilots, and anyone involved in outdoor activities on or near water, as it suggests rougher conditions that could impact safety and navigation.

In the context of sailing, seeing whitecaps often signals that the conditions are becoming more challenging and that higher waves might be present, which would require closer attention to sailing techniques and safety precautions. Therefore, their identification as indicators of high wind speeds helps mariners gauge the conditions and make informed decisions about their activities on the water.