[Paddlewise] Hit by a Waterspout in the Everglades!!!

Just returned from my club's trip to the Everglades in Flamingo last
week. It was memorable. We had a close call Friday night when our
campsite on Florida Bay was hit by a waterspout (tornado over water) at
about 1:30 AM. We had no injuries, but lots of damage.

Several of us had already abandoned our tents in favor of alternative
dorms (vans and trucks). I was awakened by a slamming force on my van
followed by another slam several seconds later from the other side. It
was so strong it felt like the van might tip. Out of over a dozen tents,
only 3 remained useable;
a Walrus, a North Face, and another small tent tied to a picnic table
that was still dragged several feet.

You can see my photos on our Photo Album at
http://www.spacecoastpaddlers.org

I found what was left of my tent in a heap nearby anchored by a large
bag of food and utensils and the marine gas grill I'd left inside it.
The fiberglass support rods had torn out of the sleeves and many
sections had broken into splinters. Based on the damage to trees that
fell, winds were estimated at over 120 mph. The path of the tornado was
only about 100 feet across, but unfortunately it passed right through
the middle of our club campsite. Campers next to our group were
unscathed. One of our member's tents pictured in the photos was found
about 200 yards away 30 feet up a tree (see photo).

Despite the waterspout, we had several good paddles in the area, all of
which we'll be posting soon on KayakGuide. Noble Hammock was my
favorite.
--

Al Vazquez
KayakGuide.com tm
the Place to Share Kayaking & Canoeing tm


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