Vendée Globe

The first severe gales are now reaching the leading group and will stay with it until they reach the south of Australia.  The gusts are not as strong (50 to 55 knots) as those experienced by the rest of the fleet, but the average wind will remain around 35 to 45. At the same time, the swell is now longer, but the average wave height is still between 7 and 9 metres. The second low-pressure system will pass over the Kerguelens on Monday night at the same time as the middle of the fleet, but it will be losing a little of its activity.
After these two systems go by, there will be a period of calm with winds between 20 and 30 knots, which should enable the competitors to sail in more comfortable conditions.  While the calm is already beginning to affect the rear of the fleet, in spite of a fairly active cold front, it will only affect the leaders on Thursday or Friday.
Sylvain Mondon
Météo-France