Meteorologist recommends weather prediction tools for boaters after vessel sinks

“While these forecasts are tailored for water sports, they could also be helpful for boaters, fishermen, and during fire events.”

Mike Godsey, Former Biologist, current Weatherflow Meteorologist of White Salmon

The Dalles, Ore., Sept. 27, 2024 — The presumed drowning of a fishing guide near the mouth of the White Salmon River this week has one local meteorologist thinking about how to better equip boaters with better weather information.

Before the fishing boat sank at about 11:40 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 25, forecasts called for high wind gusts in the Columbia Gorge.

Mike Godsey said It would be a public service to cover ways people can learn about such dangerous conditions in advance. 

Godsey attached imagery of the forecast and actual wind conditions at our weather stations just west and east of the accident.

“Notice the spike in the winds at our sensors just before and during the accident. Also, note the similar spike that morning. That could have informed boaters that dangerous conditions were likely to develop fast,” Godsey said. .

“Also note that the human forecast for the Gorge calls for very strong winds, specifically in Swell City - one mile west of the accident scene.”

“We have 3 professional meteorologists who publish wind forecasts for the Gorge three times every summer day,” Godsey said. “While these forecasts are tailored for water sports, they could also be helpful for boaters, fishermen, and during fire events. This information is on a subscription basis, but we also offer free sensors for many parts of the Gorge: https://wx.iwindsurf.com/map#45.703,-121.535,13,1,!54627,7 “