Basic rule of thumb for boating and paddling – Never trust the weather forecast. It’s just a prediction, not actual reality. Sometimes they nail it but many times they don’t.
The last part (above) showing air pressure from a barometer basicly means it’s going get much stronger within 2-3hrs. So possibly up to 30kt gusts. What is air pressure and how does a barometer work? Take a peek Here.
Today’s forecast on Puget Sound is the following:
PUGET SOUND AND HOOD CANAL- 900 AM PST FRI FEB 7 2014 TODAY SE WIND TO 10 KT...BECOMING N 10 KT IN THE AFTERNOON. WIND WAVES 1 FT OR LESS.
Reality – (now) from NOAA..
| Wind Direction (WDIR): | N ( 10 deg true ) | |
 |
Wind Speed (WSPD): | 17 kts |
|
Wind Gust (GST): | 20 kts |
|
Atmospheric Pressure (PRES): | 29.87 in |
|
Pressure Tendency (PTDY): | -0.09 in ( Falling Rapidly ) |
The last part (above) showing air pressure from a barometer basicly means it’s going get much stronger within 2-3hrs. So possibly up to 30kt gusts. What is air pressure and how does a barometer work? Take a peek Here.
That’s why it’s a smart idea to double check conditions before going out especially if you’re teaching a class. Check with a real time weather station such as NOAA and/or webcam, then go check it in person. It is a go or a cancel? Classic poor judgement – We’re here anyway, so lets just go! My rule of thumb is to stay off the evening news (unless it’s good PR).
