Good morning Gorge sports fanatics and welcome to all the competitors in the Mt Hood Cycling Classic!
Windsurfers and kiters, I have some great news: Today is our last day of miserably light wind. The evil upper level low of the coast will be exiting stage right very soon, allowing mother nature to turn the gorge west wind fan back on.You can put those windsurfing boards and kites back in the car and head straight to Hood River!
The timing isn’t quite clear yet, but it looks like we’ll see some westerlies tomorrow afternoon, probably in the 24-28 range (possibly weaker, possibly stronger =) ) as marine clouds filter into Portland. As the low slides eastward overnight tomorrow, marine clouds will drift into Portland, allowing westerlies to blow through the Gorge. As of this morning, Friday looks windy. However, models are all over the place with wind strength. It’s a matter of how much marine push we get and how fast the upper level low shifts eastward. Let's just say you'll be windsurfing and kiting in 22-26, most likely more, on Friday.
At this point, the weekend is looking windy, with morning marine clouds in Portland and sunshine in the desert.
Bike racers and fans, today is the prologue race for the mt hood cycling classic. This 3.1 mile sprint runs from Pine Grove to panorama point. Start time is 5 pm. To watch the race, park below panorama point and be prepared to cheer! If you can’t make today’s race, there will be plenty of other chances to see bike racers this week!
Whitewater boaters, you’re doing the right sport today in the heat. The Hood’s at 5.1 feet, the White Salmon’s at 4.8 feet, the Little White’s at 740 cfs, and the Wind’s at 660 cfs.
Whatever you do today, have an awesome day!