Squalls: What Are They?

Look out, there’s a squall coming your way!

Squalls can occur in any hemisphere as a sharp and sudden increase in wind speed. They’re often associated with sudden weather changes such as rain showers or thunderstorms, and they can also occur ahead of snowstorms.

A squall brings a sustained increase in wind speed, but it may also contain gusts that are significantly stronger.

What Is the Definition of a Squall?

The origin of the word squall is uncertain, but one theory suggests it may be related to the Old Norse word skvala, meaning “to squeal.”¹

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) defines a squall as:

A wind increase of at least 8 m/s
Reaching a peak speed of at least 11 m/s
Lasting for at least one minute

In short, squalls are brief but potentially powerful bursts of wind that can catch sailors off guard.

Squalls: What to Do When You’re Caught Out Sailing

So what should you do if you’ve been watching the forecast but still find yourself in squally conditions?

Here are some practical safety steps.

1. Seek Shelter or Safer Water

If you can reach a safe harbour or sheltered coastline, do so early.

However, be cautious about trying to outrun a storm. Staying in deep water may sometimes be safer than heading toward shallows, where seas can become choppy and dangerous.

No sailor wants to be caught on a lee shore in strong squalls.

In difficult conditions, it’s also wise to avoid:

Natural hazards
Tricky navigation
Narrow or complex passages

2. Secure Your Yacht Before the Squall Hits

Preparation is key.

Make sure you:

Close and batten down hatches
Reduce or strike sails
Secure the dinghy on deck
Keep decks tidy and free of loose gear
Note your position and navigation plan

If anchored, ensure your anchor is well dug in and consider letting out extra chain.

Also think about your swinging circle, and fix the wheel or tiller centrally so the boat doesn’t swing unnecessarily.

3. Squalls and Electrical Storm Safety

If you suspect an electrical storm is approaching (thunder or lightning):

Go below if possible
Wear shoes
Stay low, but never lie down
Avoid touching metal
Unplug electronics if possible
Lower antennas
Stay out of the water²

Lightning is one of the most dangerous risks associated with squalls near thunderstorms.

4. Maintain Control at Sea During Squalls

If you’re caught offshore, you may choose to motor slowly into the wind.

General guidance includes:

Keep the bow angled into waves (around 20°)
Avoid presenting the stern to the wind (risk of swamping)
Avoid lying beam-on (risk of broaching or capsize)

To maintain control, you may need to power up the face of steep waves and reduce speed once over the crest.

Motor sailing with a small amount of sail can also steady the boat.

Consider:

Reefing early
Using storm sails if available

5. Heaving-To in Squally Conditions

Heaving-to can be a good tactic if you have:

Enough sea room
Good visibility
No nearby shipping hazards

By backing the jib and holding the rudder against it, the yacht drifts slowly downwind in a more controlled and stable position.

Don’t wait until an emergency, practice heaving-to in calm weather first.

Final Thoughts on Squalls

Squalls are sudden, sharp increases in wind speed that can bring challenging and sometimes dangerous conditions.

With good preparation, early reefing, and the right tactics, sailors can manage squalls safely and confidently.

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