This winter's been just one Pacific storm after another. Many arrive with a day of wind first, then rain. Lately, I've been riding the coast during these wind events just for the excitement — well, that and to see what the waves are up to. Heavy surf and sustained winds of 15-25 mph are common.
Since the low pressure centers are often roughly east of us when the wind fronts come ashore, the initial winds are often roughly from the south. And that means stiff headwinds and tailwinds in equal measure on these storm rides with little in between.
On yesterday's storm ride, the wind was 15-20 mph from the SSW at around 57°F with humidity near 100%. Members from northern climes like
@Prairie Dog and
@RabH would probably kill for these conditions right about now. But here in SoCal, the wind chill was enough to empty out the usually busy campground store area at Carlsbad State Beach.
The surf was definitely high this time but by no means extreme.
Look closely at this high-tide shot and you'll see a single bike next to the blanket. Not sure how it got there, but no way it was ridden on that gravel with those tires. The young girl seemed totally unfazed by the windchill and heavy surf.
Wind shapes the shrubbery atop the sea cliffs. These campground tarps flapped and flapped but held their ground.
These 2 pelicans rode the updraft above the sea cliff for at least half a mile without ever flapping their wings. Pelicans may look awkward on their feet, but they're strong, graceful, and precise on the wing.
Much to Roxie's dismay, dogs are illegal on most San Diego County beaches year-round, on or off leash. Fines of $250 to $400 are common. The 2 closest exceptions are at Cardiff and Del Mar, 7 and 16 miles to our south.
