Stormy Weather

So we all plan to go out to the lake. We have listened to the weather forecast and storms are either not identified or often not discussed because the chance is low.

Even so, as you go about your day on the lake, be vigilant of those storm cells that are small and fast moving.

Most of the time you will have a great amount of wind blowing through the area prior to the rain.

If you were paying attention to the weather, then the best thing to do is to move to a sheltered cove and just wait for it to pass. This is a good time to just relax and see what the weather will bring.

Most of the time you can get your best adventures just after the storm. So make the bad weather work in your favor, and you will see things that you would not normally see.

If you happen to get caught in the storm, do not attempt to beat the storm because all you fellow boaters are thinking the same thing. This makes the ramps more congested, people irritated, and the stress levels intensify.

If you see potential storm clouds forming in the horizon and the effects are not yet felt, this might be a better time to cut your outing short and head back to the marina early.

If you get stuck out in the weather pattern, do not panic. Put on your life jackets and look for a sheltered area. Keep vigilant of changing conditions. Set an anchor and maintain an anchor watch.

Whatever you do, stay calm and make a pledge to take a boating-safety course soon from the Power Squadron, the Coast Guard Auxiliary, Arizona Game & Fish, the Arizona Yacht Club, or the Lake Pleasant Sailing Club. (Upcoming classes are listed on page 3 of this issue.)