Nautical Term: Roaring forties
Definition of Roaring forties
The Roaring Forties refers to a specific geographical band, approximately located at 40 degrees south latitude. It is characterized by the consistent and sometimes stormy westerly winds that prevail in this region.
For example, During their voyage across the southern ocean, the crew of the exploratory vessel ‘Endurance’ encountered the Roaring Forties. The westerly winds, which were consistent yet sometimes stormy, pushed the vessel along at a good pace. However, the crew also had to contend with the frequent and sometimes severe squalls that occasionally passed through the region. Despite these challenges, the crew of the ‘Endurance’ persevered and continued their journey across the southern ocean, guided by the consistent and sometimes stormy westerly winds of the Roaring Forties.
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