Which bay between France and Spain is known for its dangerous storms?

The Bay of Biscay lies between France and Spain and is known for dangerous storms and rough seas. It occupies the eastern Atlantic, with France on its northern and eastern shores and Spain’s northern coast forming its southern boundary.

The bay is especially hazardous because broad but shallow parts of its continental shelf can produce steep, powerful waves. Winter depressions frequently arrive from the west, bringing heavy seas and strong winds. Rapid pressure falls can also generate violent regional windstorms known as galernas, which may sweep across the bay with hurricane-like force.

Historically, merchant ships regularly foundered in Biscay storms, giving the bay a lasting reputation among sailors. Its waters are not uniformly stormy year-round, however: the most severe conditions usually occur during winter. The Bay of Biscay should not be confused with the Bay of Bengal, which is a much larger tropical bay in the northern Indian Ocean.