What Is A Squal In Sailing?

Squalls are sudden increases in wind speed of at least 8 meters, rising to 11 meters or more, and lasting for at least one minute. They are caused by updraughts of air into the atmosphere and are smaller and more recurrent than gusts. The official definition of a squall is a strong wind characterized by a sudden onset in which the wind speed increases.

Sailing in squalls can be challenging and dangerous for novices or those who are over-canvassed. They are extremely recurrent wind events with unpredictable consequences, often occurring in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Squalls are often associated with torrential rain showers, snow, or thunderstorms and are too small and localized to be forecast precisely. However, areas of increased activity that can be affected by squalls can be predicted accurately.

When a squall hits, it is essential to be dressed in full foul weather gear and harnessed to the boat. With the sails and rudder balanced against one another, the boat should drift slowly downwind, usually at no more than 1 knot. Sailing in squalls is more predictable in the short term, and the main sail should be at a fixed angle to the boat.

In summary, squalls are a significant and unpredictable wind event that can disrupt on-board balance and cause significant damage to boats. It is crucial to be prepared for squalls and other wind events to ensure safety and safety during sailing.