Weather Resources
W
ind is something very hard to predict accurately, especially in the Tampa Bay area. The weather does follow general patterns most of the time, however pinpointing wind speed and strength is not easy, even for expert meteorologists.
ALWAYS check the weather before you go out and keep an eye on the sky! Weather can change in an instant so be aware of the local conditions and check for patterns from previous days wind reports.
NEVER KITE IN OFFSHORE WINDS!
NE, E, S, SW winds are usually smoother, warmer and less gusty. There are also more flat-water launch sites available locally (better for beginners) on these wind directions. See launch sites section of this site for a complete list of Tampa Bay area launch sites. NE and East winds are usually stronger from sunrise until 11:00 A.M. when the land begins heating. When the land heats up rapidly, it draws the cooler wind in off of the Gulf to replace rising hot air (called a Sea Breeze) and, if its going to happen, it usually kicks in from 1:00 P.M.-5:00 P.M. and can provide some great riding opportunities in the summer months.
Know Before You Go! Do not kite in unstable weather, or in winds gusting over 15 mph. Do not kite alone! Use the buddy system and always be ready to assist a kiter in need. Gusts of 5-10 knots over wind speed are manageable with newer style kites, however GUSTS OF OVER 15 KNOTS SHOULD BE AVOIDED! TAMPA BAY PHONE TIPS- Tampa Bay PORTS Tampa Bay P.O.R.T.S(Physical Oceanographic Real Time System) 1(866) TB PORTS (866) 627-6787(Program these numbers in your phone, its very handy!)Dial # 1-(888) TB PORTS It gives real time wind speeds at several wind sensors in the Bay area (#3 on menu), (1&2 give tides info) C-Cut is the closest wind sensor to the Skyway Bridge. Their website will show you the other sensor locations at: New kiters should AVOID ONSHORE WINDS, and body drag past swim buoys before water starting. Good luck with your forecasting, and remember, a day at the beach is always better than a day at work!Click the Tabs on your left for a complete list of Tampa Bay Weather Resources.
