Happy Memorial Day everyone!
I hope all you windsurfers and kiters had a chance to get on the water yesterday. If not, today is round two - your chance to spend some time flopping about (I mean ripping it up) windsurfing and kiteboarding in the Columbia River. We had a .15 gradient and mid-twenties wind at the Hatchery to start the day. Strongest wind will be in the from the Hatchery to Hood River this morning, in the 25-29 range. As Portland heats up, winds drop into the 22-25 range later today.We may see a late day bump back into the 24-28 range if predicted clouds push back at the coast early enough. If this happens, we'll have 24-28 from Doug's out to Arlington this afternoon.
Given that we're at three in a row, most of you will probably be tired and drinking beer in Hood River at Double Mountain by the time winds rebound in the evening.
A weak shortwave crosses the northwest tonight, burying Portland in clouds and leaving the desert sunny tomorrow. Unfortunately, low pressure at the coast in the morning will likely limit early wind strength. We’ll have a 17-21 start tomorrow, followed by a 24-28 afternoon, as high pressure rebuilds at the coast.
Models for Wednesday keep shifting around. As of this morning, they suggest no kiteboarding or windsurfing in Hood River on Wednesday. Instead, you can head to the coast for your midweek fix.
If your upper body is tired from playing in the river yesterday, go mountain biking today. I rode Mitchell Ridge yesterday, and it’s in fantastic shape. Pretty much all of Post Canyon is really good now, but after a few more days of no rain, it’s going to be dusty. Go riding while you have a perfect trail. And speaking of perfect trails, mark your calendar for the Whoopdee trail work party next Saturday.
Boaters, your numbers: The Hood’s at 5.2 feet, the White Salmon’s at 4.9 feet, the Little White’s at 805 cfs, and the Wind River’s at 800 cfs.
Whatever you do today, have a great day!