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Weather
Awareness When Paddling
Sudden
Weather Changes
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It's worth emphasizing that before setting out to paddle -
you should know the expected weather conditions and any
forecasted changes. If the weather changes suddenly, a wind
comes up or clouds form that threaten rain - be informed to
make appropriate safety decisions.
So how do you do that? Well, here's a couple of ways that I
know of ...
- Via the Internet - For weather and current warnings
you can go to:
www.WEATHER.GOV.
- For weather and water temperature you can go to
www.WEATHER.COM - click on Sports & Recreation, then
Boat & Beach.
- Another way to find the current weather and water
temperature is NOAA's weather radio - NWR (National
Weather Radio). It covers 50 states, adjacent coastal
waters, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the
U.S. Pacific Territories. Continual broadcasts are aired
on the VHF (MHz) bands as follows: 162.400 - 162.425 -
162.450 - 162.475 - 162.500 - 162.525 - 162.550
When the Wind
Comes Up
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The wind can pose particular challenges. On calm water even
a brisk breeze can make it suddenly difficult to paddle. You
will find yourself paddling like crazy but don't seem to be
getting anywhere!
In this situation paddle at an angle to the wind and make
your way closer to the shore line where you will find it
easier to paddle. From there, you can paddle the perimeter
of the area. This may take longer but you won't be as tired.
Here's a "tip" to impress your friends - Tie
a bright colored length of yarn to a point on the bow
(about 6" will do) and you will always be able to see
the direction of the wind.
Lightning is Frightening!
On golf courses they sound a safety signal to alert golfers
that rain/lightning is approaching. On the water, there is
no signal - you must be aware. When storm clouds suddenly
appear - rain is likely and often lightning can accompany
it.
Lightning is serious in open water. If you hear a rumble
of thunder off in the distance - don't ignore it - it's
likely headed your way. Paddle quickly to the nearest
shore and seek the safest cover you can find until the storm
passes. If you have an aluminum paddle (or other metal
items) leave them a distance away from you until the storm
passes. So get a Smart Start, learn all about kayaking
before hitting the water and find a great kayak and gear at
PortableKayaks.com!
Submitted by:
Smart-Start-Kayaking.com
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