New research could help predict sudden, high waves at sea before they reach shipping or populated areas, according to scientists at the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra.

The so-called rogue waves which appear swiftly on the ocean can be up to 10 storeys high.

"Rogue waves are more than two times the average height of the highest waves, they are unpredicted and unexpected," research leader Nail Akhmediev said.

"They could be two metres or three metres, or even 30 or 40 metres but the unexpectedness is the danger.

"And they can cause significant damage to ships and populated coastal areas."

Ships unlucky enough to be hit by a rogue wave can capsize or be seriously damaged.

The physics team has been using mathematical models to predict rogue waves and where they will appear. ( Supplied )

Professor Akhmediev's physics team has been explaining what rogue waves are using mathematical terms.

"Data from buoys and satellites around the world is already being collected and analysed," he said.

"Combined with observations of the surrounding ocean from the ship, this would give enough information to predict rogue waves."

In future, scientists hope equipment could be developed for ships which could predict dangerous waves in the area.

The wave research has been published in the prestigious journal, The Proceedings of the Royal Society.