changing weather

2008-07-29 10:56:12.000 – Jeff Wehrwein,  Summit Intern

Saturday’s sunrise

Yesterday morning we had a rare warm moment on the summit. As Steve, Dennis, Lisa, and I were (yet again) mounting the MeTEK sonic anemometer on the stage office, the wind was dead calm, the temperature was near 60, and the sun was shining brightly. Standing on the ladder, I had an unusual sensation of being too hot. Most days I wear long pants and a fleece when I’m outside, but yesterday I was much happier in shorts and a t-shirt. This summer, the weather on the summit has generally consisted of temperatures in the 40s and 50s and winds from 10 to 40 mph. 60 degrees is my idea of a hot summer day, so this climate is great for me. I especially like the wind, which is almost always present to cool you off if you get too warm outside.

Today, on the other hand, the weather is what we affectionately call “gross”. The wind is blowing around 40 mph, the temperature has dropped to the mid 40s, and the air is filled with dense wet fog. It is amazing how 15 degrees and 40 mph can make the difference between a beautiful day and an uncomfortable one. Interestingly, that 15 degrees and 40 mph is also the difference between the valley and the summit on a typical summer day, as you can see on the ARVP.

At home, I generally only have to look at the temperature to determine what clothing I should wear when I go outside. Up here, however, the wind and the sky conditions also play a large role in that decision. 50 degrees with sun and calm winds is a beautiful summer day, while 50 degrees with 40 mph winds and fog is a good day to stay inside.

In other news, a lone zip-off pant leg was left draped over a fire extinguisher in the observatory during Seek the Peak on Saturday. If the original owner would like it back, he or she should contact the summit as soon as possible.

Jeff Wehrwein,  Summit Intern