Did you know there are signs that different kinds of weather are approaching? Learning these signs, without the use of electronics, is important for boaters to stay safe. Predicting the weather at sea can help you with avoiding storms.
Understand the Clouds
Know what the clouds are saying about the weather at sea. From the cloud shape to its size, there is much to read. For example, Cirrus Clouds signify fair weather is close by. They are very high in the atmosphere, and if they look long and wispy or you see them moving, then they are telling you the weather is temperamental.
If avoiding storms is what you want (a wise choice!), then you’ll want small, motionless clouds in the sky as they signal nice weather. This is just a brief introduction to clouds though; read up more on this topic to stay safe on the water.
Changes in Wind
If you notice a shift in the wind, it means a change in weather will soon follow. Wind blowing due north or due south can mean a storm ahead. By feeling the wind’s direction, you can tell where an upcoming system is headed. It’s all part of avoiding storms and staying safe on the water.
Monitor Pressure
Yes, pressure can tell you what the weather at sea will soon be. Generally, the rule is that a low-pressure area has stormy weather and a high-pressure area has pleasant weather. As pressure lowers, an area will become rainy and as the pressure increases the nicer weather at sea will come out.
If you’re wondering how to tell if the pressure is changing, most of us can feel it with our body. Anyone with arthritis knows that aches can accompany a change in weather. This is because the change in pressure outside the bone is different than inside the bone. While it may be irritating, it’s a great way to monitor pressure change and help you with avoiding storms.