1979 Fastnet Race - Meteorological History

Meteorological History

A large depression, known as "low Y," formed over the Atlantic Ocean during the weekend of 11-12 August. On 13 August it began to rapidly intensify and turn northeastwards, reaching about 200 nautical miles southwest of Ireland. By the 14th, the low was centred over Wexford. Land-based weather stations reported gale force winds, with the strongest winds out to sea over the race area. The Meteorological Office assessed the maximum winds as force 10 on the Beaufort scale; many race competitors believed the winds to have reached force 11. Lowest pressure was 979 hPa.

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