What defines a strong gale on the Beaufort scale?

A strong gale on the Beaufort scale is specifically defined by wind speeds between 34 and 40 knots. At this range, winds are strong enough to produce high waves that can lead to significant challenges for sailors and may also cause minor structural damage to vessels and coastal structures. This category indicates a notable increase in wind strength, resulting in conditions that can be quite dangerous at sea, such as difficulty in sailing and navigating, as well as the potential for breaking waves. The impact of these winds justifies the classification of a strong gale, distinguishing it from lighter winds, which produce lesser effects and challenges.