Racing on the Waitematā Harbour is scheduled for 1600, and with PredictWind data refreshed at 0650 that morning, the overall picture is stable and favourable. No significant weather risks appear in the forecast, the sea state is manageable, and the tide will be working in the fleet's favour throughout the afternoon.
Wind is forecast from the southwest at 11 to 15 knots, with model consensus at 13 knots. Gusts are expected in the 20 to 26 knot range, with model consensus placing the peak gust at 21 knots. That puts conditions squarely in the range suited to the 18 metre wing, which the fleet is expected to race under. The gust spread is solid without being excessive, pointing toward a fast afternoon without undue pressure.
Rain carries low confidence. Should any showers develop, they are expected to be brief and light. Lightning is not forecast for the afternoon period, which is a meaningful consideration for SailGP race management. Getting F50 foilers in and out via crane is not an option when lightning is predicted.
Cloud cover is forecast at 100 percent throughout the racing window, keeping temperatures modest. The mercury should sit near 20°C, with a peak of 21°C around 4.00pm.
The sea state will add a degree of texture to proceedings without creating serious complications. Wave height is forecast at approximately 0.5 metres with a wave period of two seconds, leaving the harbour lively but predictable.
At 4.00pm, the tide will be approximately three quarters of the way through its incoming cycle, providing a fair and consistent racing surface for all competing teams.
Taken together, the afternoon offers a moderate southwest breeze, a small but active harbour sea state, full cloud cover, and dry conditions as the likely outcome. Suitable conditions for quick, controlled racing.
