Re: [Paddlewise] Fw: tempting the angry gods

On 03/29/2001, at 11:33 AM (GMT -08:00), Craig MacKinnon wrote:

>Fortunately, I've yet to find myself in the path of a water spout or
tornado.

A couple summers ago, there was a water spout here that came quite
close to shore before dissipating.  I was on the water that day (I do
enjoy windy conditions), and saw it from a distance of about two miles.
 Out here on the open coast, it's pretty easy to see weather coming, as
there's such a wide open view.  Being able to predict where it's going
and how soon is another story.  I often enjoy the view of several
separate and impressive weather cells in the distance, as I'm paddling
under blue skies.  Of course, I always keep an eye - or two - on them. 

When I paddle solo - which is most of the time - I'm usually no more
than a couple miles offshore at any given moment.  Always being aware
of weather conditions - before, during, and after paddling (in short -
all the time) - is something I enjoy and take advantage of.  It's fun
to learn about weather systems, different cloud types, air, ground, and
water tempuratures, etc., and what they might mean in terms of "what's
next, how soon, and where".

One thing I do know without a doubt - conditions can and do change
quickly and drastically.  I'm sure we all know this very well.
Awareness at all times - even when a day starts with clear skies and
calm waters, is essential.

99% of my paddling is local day paddling (nearly every day), so I
usually have a choice to head for shore/home in case of impending
weather chaos.  If I see a truly big thunderstorm coming, I usually
prefer to head for home and wait it out, enjoying the storm from next
to my fireplace.  I'll only "tempt the angry gods" when it seems
relatively reasonable to do so - given the choice.

However...  I do enjoy weather in all it's forms, and experiencing
various weather conditions from a kayak - or walking on the beach - is
something I really very much enjoy.  I always feel a little irritated
when I hear a TV or radio weather person talk about "good" and "bad"
weather in terms of sunshine vs. something else.  To me, they're quite
missing the point, and much enjoyment of "different" weather.

Melissa


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