Archive of: Teaser

Weather on the other side of the world

Sometimes our weather picture can get very localized. We can become a little too focused on our immediate surroundings. I decided to take a wider look around the world to see what was going on.

by Ken McKinley

Lessons in lightning

A voyaging boat can expect one lifetime lightning hit, but the chance increases dramatically in hot, humid places, like the Intertropical Convergence Zone or Florida’s lightning alley, where as much as 20 percent of boats suffer some lightning damage every year.

Story and photos by Jim Foley

Frontal anatomy

When discussing weather and weather forecasts, the term “front” is used frequently. And, sometimes misused.

by Ken McKinley

Earlier danger season in the Gulf Stream?

by Michael Tougias

Sandy’s left hook

The Coriolis effect tends to make storms curve to the right in the northern hemisphere. So why did Hurricane Sandy make a left turn?

by Ken McKinley

Coconut Milk Run weather

Crossing the Pacific Ocean even on the straightest path is a long voyage.

by Jeff Williams

Family weather routing

Making extensive use of GRIB weather files on a North Atlantic 
crossing

BY andy schell

Lows and arrows

Many mariners are familiar with the surface weather charts from NOAA’s Ocean Prediction Center and make regular use of these charts to help make their weather-related voyaging decisions.

by Ken McKinley

Christmas winds

From early December through mid January, easterly trade winds become stronger and remain energetic for several days

by Ken McKinley

Weather instruments - What should you have on board?

Weather instruments on board allow you to note conditions in your patch of ocean

by Ken McKinley