Storm (Beaufort Force 10)

The Beaufort Force 10 wind category, corresponding to sustained winds of 48 to 55 knots.

The Met Office marine description is ‘Storm’. In a fully developed open sea it is associated with very high waves, long overhanging crests, extensive foam and spray and reduced visibility, but actual waves depend on fetch, duration, depth and pre-existing sea state.

This wind-force term should not be confused with every meteorological storm system or with a tropical cyclone. Forecast winds, gusts, sea state and vessel limits must be considered separately rather than inferring conditions from the single Beaufort word.

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