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10 Q-Weather Forecasts (Read 6500 times)
solotripper
Inukshuk
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Q-Weather Forecasts
Apr 22nd, 2015 at 7:28pm
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I know we all learn to deal with the weather as it comes, but if some of you are like me, you plan a few layover days IF you have the time?

I'd rather be snug in a nice sheltered camp than paddle/portage especially in the spring when the weather/cold can really change day to day.

Sometimes the spot is too nice to not stay, weather be damned, but these tools help me make a more informed decision than just half guessing from what I can observe wind/cloud wise.

Last spring and fall, I took 2 weather print-outs with me from these sources. Both were very close to being the same and I estimate they were about 90% spot on.

Both let you do either graphs or a calendar. I like this 30 day calendar. I put them in a plastic laminate sleeve and keep in map case. At night I mark my Lake/Campsite on day and check the next day’s forecast.

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intrepid_camper
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Re: Q-Weather Forecasts
Reply #1 - Apr 22nd, 2015 at 8:17pm
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I certainly look ahead to what weather might arrive while I am out, but just in a general way...like "it might rain mid-week" or overall hot temperatures.  The details change so fast that a little patience is all you need to get past the weather rough spots.  Some things, like a nasty black and expansive cloud, are immediate clues to what you can expect coming your way. 
I think a little weather "mystery" just adds to the adventure.
  
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jimmar
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Re: Q-Weather Forecasts
Reply #2 - Apr 22nd, 2015 at 8:23pm
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A couple of years ago I spent a week going from Nym to Sturgeon and back. The weather was pretty calm and sunny, except for one brief but horrendous downpour. That week it always appeared cloudy just to the North. When we got back to the outfitter in Atikokan we learned that it had rained steadily all week.

Thanks for the links, I'll give it a try in about 6 weeks. I've learned to not trust forecasts and to expect just about anything.
  
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Ranger
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Inukshuk
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Re: Q-Weather Forecasts
Reply #3 - Apr 22nd, 2015 at 8:30pm
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The long-range forecasts are fine, but I learned last September that it's still wise to pack for any and all conditions. Even if that means bringing some things you don't think you'll wear.

When I left home the 10-day was pleasant, mild conditions, right in line with the averages. Two days later I'm in Atikokan, on the eve of my trip, and now the forecast is showing snowflakes and high winds 5 - 7 days out. I managed to acquire a pair of gloves in town, but I could have used some warmer gear that was sitting at home.

This was Nym as we made for the exit - this was a strong north headwind, and cold:

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solotripper
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Re: Q-Weather Forecasts
Reply #4 - Apr 22nd, 2015 at 8:36pm
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I would NEVER pack gear based on ANY weather forecast. I bring clothes/tarps that will work from ice out to the hottest days, which I've seen in Mid-May in the Q more than a few times.

Spent one day paddling on Sturgeon from Jean Crk and the weather was 90+ degrees Shocked

This spring, not so much. Wink Grin

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Jim J Solo
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Re: Q-Weather Forecasts
Reply #5 - Apr 23rd, 2015 at 1:47pm
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Since we started paddling Lake Superior I got a marine weather radio. It's been handy in the Q too. Especially in the shoulder seasons. It's probably not for everyone, but it's kind of like GPS's, Spot's, or Fish Finders, etc... once you except it and use it, it sure is nice having one.

I don't take a Fish Finder, but I'm not that much about the fishing. We picked up the Spot for LS paddling too, and it's nice to know it's there.

Just saying they do work, but you probably need a nicer one, i.e. Marine type, not a Radio Shack pocket transistor model for home use. Mine is made for International waters and gets both Canadian and US stations.
  
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jaximus
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Re: Q-Weather Forecasts
Reply #6 - Apr 25th, 2015 at 6:42am
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i also print out a couple sources of weather before i go. i too use wunderground! i also use scoutlook. its an app for smartphones but can also be viewed online. i think its one of the best apps out there.

im also not big on surprises, so i check both the wisconsin and minnesota road construction reports prior to leaving also. its hit or miss on if i can find anything on highway 11 in canada, but most of it has been redone already between ft frances and atikokan in the past few years
  
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HighnDry
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Re: Q-Weather Forecasts
Reply #7 - Apr 27th, 2015 at 1:08am
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I bring a S.A.M.E weather radio (most of the time). Some of the best instructions I've read and try to practice is noting the wind direction and cloud formations (temps are in there too if I'm noting them) from this site. I am not always able to get it right but it helps to be able to anticipate weather changes. Agree with everyone's general take here that the weather is changeable and planning for just about anything is prudent.
  
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Rocky
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Re: Q-Weather Forecasts
Reply #8 - May 27th, 2015 at 7:40pm
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If you bring a satellite phone or Delorme InReach, you can get a text message forecast sent to you each day from:  (You need to Login or Register to view media files and links)
  
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db
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Re: Q-Weather Forecasts
Reply #9 - May 27th, 2015 at 8:41pm
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intrepid_camper wrote on Apr 22nd, 2015 at 8:17pm:
I certainly look ahead to what weather might arrive while I am out, but just in a general way...like "it might rain mid-week" or overall hot temperatures.  The details change so fast that a little patience is all you need to get past the weather rough spots.  Some things, like a nasty black and expansive cloud, are immediate clues to what you can expect coming your way. 
I think a little weather "mystery" just adds to the adventure. 


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