I hope everyone got on the water yesterday for some of that better-than-forecasted wind! NOAA and the models called for clearing in Portland as the day wound down, but instead, clouds increased, giving us mid/upper twenties instead of 21-24. I have no complaints. Boat sailing, on the other hand, didn't go so well last night. We really could have used a few more big bodies on the rail of our big boat with all that wind blasting us around.
If you'd told me yesterday that we'd see marine clouds past Hood River this morning, well, I would have called you nuts! But so it is: marine clouds sneaked past Hood River this morning, setting up gradients, but not dawn patrol (clouds are too far for dawn patrol). We've got .09 and .05 (out east) to start the day today. Models aren't handling the passage of last night's front well at all, so I'm going with gut instinct today. With low pressure over the Rockies and the North Pacific High in place, as well as dense marine clouds in Portland, we're looking at a perfect Gorge setup (unfortunate, as I have to work all day). After the clouds burn back west of the Hatchery, watch for winds in the 23-27 range. With clouds this far into desert territory, Doug's will get an earlier start than usual. Look for 24-27 out there (yes, I know, that one mile per hour difference is everything). With upper level flow out of the northwest, look for best winds to center on (finally) the Hatchery section of the river.
Tomorrow looks quite similar to today. A weak system crosses overnight, dragging low clouds in its wake. The North Pacific High intensifies, setting up solid high pressure to the west. For now, I'll say 22-26 with a possibility of dawn patrol. I know I said that was done for the season (due to the fall setup of cold nights in the desert, but Portland has joined the cold night temperature club).
Saturday and Sunday set up for the first big easterlies of the summer.
I am not sure why anyone who doesn't have commitments is sitting in the Gorge with river nose right now (and you all know I love the Gorge). If I was a free creature, I'd be at the coast. Small craft advisories all the way down the coast and a good-sized swell? Who wouldn't go? Dana - I'm jealous of you Pistol kids!
Have a great day on the water, wherever you are! I'll join you for an hour midday at Cheap.
Print | posted @ Thursday, September 06, 2007 7:30 AM