What does it mean that "the south coast bore the brunt of the gale"?

The phrase "bore the brunt" indicates that a particular area experienced the strongest effects or the greatest burden of an event. In this context, when it is said that "the south coast bore the brunt of the gale," it means that the south coast was the region most heavily impacted by the gale's powerful winds and conditions. The use of the term "brunt" conveys a sense of significant adversity or force, highlighting that the south coast faced the most severe consequences compared to other areas.

This understanding captures the intensity of the gale's impact on that specific location, making it clear that the south coast was not just affected, but rather, it endured the worst of the gale's effects.