Vendée Globe

The first severe gales associated with the low passing to the south of Heard Island on Sunday has already affected some of the fleet. The cold front passed over Algimouss in the middle of the night, over Great America and Maisonneuve on Saturday morning and Artemis around lunchtime. During the afternoon, Toe in the water will feel the effects of the cold front too and tonight it will be the turn of Akena and Aviva.  As it moves eastwards, the wind in this system is continuing to strengthen and the seas will become heavier. The climax is expected on Sunday morning just to the west of the Kerguelens.  It will then continue its journey eastwards, while becoming less active.  The accompanying winds will not be as strong as they hit the first half of the fleet late this weekend or early next week.  The second severe gale will be arriving further north  and entering the Indian Ocean at around 42°S on Sunday.  To the immediate south of the mow, there will be easterly winds, which will handicap the boats in this area, if the low is port and aft.
Sylvain Mondon
Météo-France