Winter Storms To Follow After Christmas Weekend

The forecast across most of the country for this holiday weekend is miserable. A winter storm is currently wreaking havoc across the Northwest, with blizzard conditions closing down services and transport in many areas. Holiday plans have been abandoned as thousands of flights are canceled. There’s even talk of Floridians having to rug up. But here in California, we’re counting our blessings — it looks like a good weekend for sailing. Of course many of us will also spend some time at home enjoying Christmas celebrations, but keep in mind that the weather is forecast to turn on Monday, making now a good time to check that your boat is prepared for rain and potentially rough conditions. Boats anchored in Richardson Bay want to make sure they have plenty of scope. Those at docks should check fender lines, docklines and roller furling to make sure all is secure. Oh, and don’t forget the hatches and covers!

Enjoy the weekend and take advantage of the opportunity to make sure your boat is ready for the next stretch of winter weather. If you want to ensure that you have thought of everything, check out Mary SwiftSwan’s “Storm Prep Check List.”