Why was William I’s invasion of England delayed for eight weeks?

William I’s invasion of England was delayed for eight weeks because of unfavorable winds that prevented his fleet from crossing the English Channel.12

By August 1066, William had assembled his forces at the mouth of the Dives River, but the weather conditions remained adverse, stalling his departure. This delay proved to be a significant strategic advantage for William; during this time, King Harold II was forced to dismiss his peasant militia because they had run out of supplies and needed to return to their fields for the harvest, leaving the southern coast of England without adequate protection. When the winds finally turned in his favor on September 27, William was able to set sail and land his army in England unopposed.12