The sinking of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald on November 10, 1975 remains one of the most tragic maritime disasters in history. While it is not known exactly what caused the accident, some have suggested that a rogue wave may have been responsible. A rogue wave is an extremely powerful and unexpected surge in ocean waves that can appear suddenly and be very dangerous to vessels out at sea. If this theory were true, then it would suggest that extreme weather events like rogue waves pose considerable risk to ships even with modern navigational and safety measures in place.

Advances in oceanography since 1975 could potentially provide insights into what happened during the sinking of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald and help inform future maritime safety measures. New technology such as buoys equipped with sensors could detect rogue waves more effectively or measure their power when they occur so ships can take evasive action if needed. Improved computer models for predicting storms, tsunamis and other extreme weather events are also now available which could help sailors better plan routes around areas prone to hazardous conditions before setting sail.

Comparing the tragedy of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald to similar accidents resulting from extreme weather events helps illustrate how careful navigation strategies need to be taken into account when sailing on high seas. Ships must look out for changing environmental conditions while avoiding treacherous waters along coastal shores or large bodies of water like oceans or lakes where large swells might form due to wind patterns or tide changes without warning. Appropriate life rafts should always be kept onboard in case disaster strikes and proper training given so crew members know what to do if things take a turn for the worse unexpectedly far away from land or port facilities nearby too