Sooner or later everyone who ventures out on the water will encounter strong winds and confused seas, fog, thunderstorms, or heavy rain. This book acquaints boaters with the forces that shape weather, allowing them to predict what changes can be expected. Part I presents a logical explanation of climate and weather, concentrating on those aspects that affect the mariner the most–wind speed and direction, low visibility, thunderstorms, gales, and hurricanes. Part II, which can be read independently, deals with the effects of climate and weather on all types and sizes of boats, without delving into the whys and wherefores–a practical approach for those who want only the necessary facts, illustrated by over 50 images, maps, and diagrams. This book is a valuable tool for everyone who enjoys being on the water.
| CONTENTS | |
| Acknowledgments | 7 |
| Introdcution | 9 |
| Part I: Forces that Shape Our Weather | 13 |
| 1. Climate and Weather | 14 |
| 2. Highs and Lows | 20 |
| 3. Heating and Cooling | 26 |
| 4. The Earth's Wind System | 33 |
| 5. Temperature and Humidity | 42 |
| 6. Type of Clouds | 50 |
| 7. Cyclones and Anticyclones | 56 |
| 8. Air Masses | 63 |
| 9. Fronts and Storms | 68 |
| Part II: Weather and the Boater | 79 |
| 10. Wind and Water | 80 |
| 11. Coastal Patterns | 88 |
| 12. Hnadling Heavy Weather | 93 |
| 13. Forcasting Aids | 102 |
| 14. Weather Forcoasting | 111 |
| 15. Hurricanes | 126 |
| 16. Weather Planning for the Offshore Voyager | 133 |
| 17. Climate Change | 143 |
| Appendix | |
| Personal Boater Weather Logs | 154 |
| Boaters Notes | 157 |
| Index | 159 |