First off, it's Larry Spellman's birthday today. He runs the most excellent Hood River Weather website. If you have a chance, drop by his chatroom and wish him a happy birthday: http://webpages.charter.net/hoodriverweather/weather.htm
The wacky weather continues today with clouds streaming into the Northwest from the south, directed by a huge upper level low far off the coast of California. These moisture-laden clouds carry warm air from down south, driving snow levels to unacceptable heights.
As of this morning, it was cold enough to snow on the ski slopes, but no precipitation was falling. Cross your fingers that we don't get an inch of water value today, as the models predict. If we do, it will most likely come in the form of rain, until the snow levels drop overnight.
Snow levels drop to their proper levels tomorrow, bringing snow back to Mt. Hood. We'll see a few inches of snow at Meadows tomorrow, a few more Tuesday, then, if the forecast holds, a blizzard on Wednesday. As of now, models are showing 1-1.5" of water value for Wednesday, giving us a foot or more of powder.
Remember, the $99 spring pass is now on sale. If you buy it, you won't have to purchase another (expensive) lift ticket until the 09/10 ski season.
For you windsurfers and kiteboarders, today is your day. East gradients are about .19 this morning, enough for 30ish in Stevenson and 35ish at Rooster Rock. Easterlies will fade as the day goes on, but gradients should stay weakly easterly for the next few days. If you go windsurfing, don't forget your hot tub and thermos. I wonder if you could rent one of those hottub-toting limousines for a few hours. Just have it park in the lot while you're on the water, and then jump in the jacuzzi after you're done.
Have a great day!
Print | posted @ Sunday, March 01, 2009 7:03 AM