Gusty

Question
Hi Windlover - is there any truth in the theory that winds tend to be more gusty in the afternoon due to the thermal air rising from the heated land surface vs less gusty in the mornings due to the land surface still being cool?

Answer
Hey Fritz,

There is quite a bit of truth to this theory. It may not be true for all areas but for places like the Gorge, this is very true. The Gorge winds are mainly caused by thermal air rising in the eastern part of Washington and Oregon. This draws cool air from the coast and then the Gorge tends to compress the air to create very windy conditions. This is the main source of wind in the Gorge during the summer months.

Hope this helps.
Keep on sailing,
Windlover