In this article we’ll talk about some of the signs you can use detect changes in the weather while your on the beach.
Wind lines on the water
When you’re flying you can often see what is happening with the wind on the water. Below are a couple things listed that can you can use to see changes of the wind.
White caps
If the waves further out on the ocean have white caps on them you can assume the wind is stronger.
Color changes
If you see that the ocean has different colors that can mean the wind is pushing the water around. This can be a gust of wind or that wind will get less.
Clouds
Clouds can often mean a change in the airmass. Like a front passing by. If you see an ominous wall of clouds heading your way it’s best to wait till it passes. Fronts can generate huge gusts of wind which would arrive before the clouds get there.
Besides different airmasses normal puffy clouds can also carry huge amounts of energy which you can feel in the air. Be aware that if the clouds are hanging fairly low you might feel some more turbulence once you get close to one.
Windmills
Some sites have windmill parks further out in sea. At Wijk aan zee we have one many kilometers out in sea.
Whatever happens with the windmills will hit us after. If you see them stop turning it’s best to fly back quickly. Otherwise you’ll have to walk.
Birds
Often when flying we’re joined by birds. Besides being super awesome they can also show us what the wind is doing.
As a rule of thumb:
If the seagulls are able to soar. So are we with a bigger glider.
If the seagulls have their wings folded back it means it’s strong wind.