"Weather Eye to the Sky - Virga" & Final Clinic of 2012 coming soon!
VIRGA & MICROBURST WINDS
What does this mean for Utah Lake Sailors?
What does this mean for Utah Lake Sailors?
"Virga is rain that evaporates before hitting the ground". For sailors, that definition should conclude with . . . "accompanied by strong microburst winds as unpredictable down drafts."
Here is the Wikipedia definition of Virga: In meteorology, Virga is an observable streak or shaft of precipitation that falls from a cloud but evaporates before reaching the ground. Virga can cause varying weather effects, because as rain is changed from liquid to vapor form, it removes heat from the air due to the high heat of vaporization of water. In some instances, these pockets of colder air can descend rapidly, creating a dry microburst which can be extremely hazardous.
This year has been unusually active for microburst conditions on Utah Lake. By keeping a "Weather Eye on the Sky" (Virga) you should be alerted to possible strong winds that "come on you fast and leave you fast." There is usually no warning sign when a microburst hits. It might be a good idea when you see Virga to have people come back into the cockpit, put on PFD's and stow any loose objects, and be prepared for some radical heeling.
Here is the Wikipedia definition of Virga: In meteorology, Virga is an observable streak or shaft of precipitation that falls from a cloud but evaporates before reaching the ground. Virga can cause varying weather effects, because as rain is changed from liquid to vapor form, it removes heat from the air due to the high heat of vaporization of water. In some instances, these pockets of colder air can descend rapidly, creating a dry microburst which can be extremely hazardous.
This year has been unusually active for microburst conditions on Utah Lake. By keeping a "Weather Eye on the Sky" (Virga) you should be alerted to possible strong winds that "come on you fast and leave you fast." There is usually no warning sign when a microburst hits. It might be a good idea when you see Virga to have people come back into the cockpit, put on PFD's and stow any loose objects, and be prepared for some radical heeling.
Bonneville's Olson 30 being heeled over by one of the many microburst winds
that challenged us in the 2012 Keelboat Regatta.
Photo by Joe Richey
that challenged us in the 2012 Keelboat Regatta.
Photo by Joe Richey
RIGGING & TRIMMING CLINIC
September 15, 2012
9 am - 4 pm
The last clinic for the season is just around the corner!! Our clinics have been action packed and informative. This is a great way to end the season on a high note!September 15, 2012
9 am - 4 pm
Take this opportunity to get out for some great instruction before we have to pull the boats out. Build confidence and skills and be prepared for next year's challenging spring winds. This clinic will be held on our Catalina 27 and will include information on inspecting and tuning standing rigging, tips on trimming on all points of sail, as well as some spinnaker work. Click HERE for more information. Cost is $195.00 and includes lunch from Kneaders.
Here are a couple testimonials from other clinics:
"Bonneville was great at offering insights and advice on all areas of sailing not just limited to our class topic." Stephen
"As a long-time sailor, the Spinnaker Clinic was my first class at Bonneville. The class far surpassed my expectations. Not only did I learn how to fly the chute, I also gained additional confidence and boat handling skills, as well as fun picking Tim's brain with all kinds of sailing and racing questions." Steve
"Bonneville was great at offering insights and advice on all areas of sailing not just limited to our class topic." Stephen
"As a long-time sailor, the Spinnaker Clinic was my first class at Bonneville. The class far surpassed my expectations. Not only did I learn how to fly the chute, I also gained additional confidence and boat handling skills, as well as fun picking Tim's brain with all kinds of sailing and racing questions." Steve
Bonneville School of Sailing
www.bonnevillesailing.com
801.636.5204
www.bonnevillesailing.com
801.636.5204