Vendée Globe

Many of the competitors are now racing upwind in the E to SE'ly trade winds, blowing at around fifteen knots, as they make their way south.
This angle, which is not favourable for high speeds is set to last some time because the St. Helena high is disturbed by the arrival of two thundery lows from Brazil. Thus, the ridge that usually extends north-westwards, which would have allowed some downwind sailing for the Vendée Globe competitors from the south of Brazil is no longer there. The route is going to be long without this helping hand, as they will attempt to pick up the downwind conditions in the disturbed area in the Roaring Forties. On top of that, the high off Uruguay is not helping the competitors, as it is generating strong SE'ly winds. This situation could change if another thundery low forms off Brazil, which would significantly modify the conditions.
For the 4 in the Doldrums or approaching them, the situation remains thundery with squalls and calms ahead.

Sylvain Mondon
Météo-France