Sunday, July 31, 2022

The Last Of A July Tidbit

Mornin'!  It's 71° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 84% with a dewpoint of 69°.  Winds are barely there out of the N-NW at 2-4mph.  And, Ms Sun's up and shining as brightly as she can through the morning haze.  It's a perfect last sunrise in July.  It was a hot one this month for sure but this weekend, lacks that oppressive humidity and so far has been 2 thumbs up.  It'll be a sunny start to the day with clouds filtering by this afternoon.  Temps will in the low-mid 80s with S-SE breezes at 10-15mph.  Tonight... 75% chance of showers becoming a steady rain overnight.  Temps will drop to where they are now... low-70s with Easterly winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow... rains showers early (40% chance) with sun peeking in later in the day; then clear starlit skies by nightfall.  Temps will be in the low-80s with NW winds at 5-10mph.  Well, until next year July... thanks for your near-perfect steamy, hot and humid weather.  It wouldn't be summer without you!  Until next year... !
High Tide: 10:39AM
Low Tide: 4:17PM
Ocean Temp: 76°
Sunrise: 5:59AM
Sunset: 8:13PM
UV Index: 8.6 
Rip Current: Low Risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,595,210
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,266
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,698
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 313

Saturday, July 30, 2022

Sunny Saturday

Mornin'!  It's 77° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 75% with a dewpoint of 69°.  Ms Sun's up and there's are light breezes out of the N-NW at 8-10mph.  It's a perfectly lovely summer morning down the Shore.  The humidity's checked out and you notice immediately when stepping outside.  It's amazing what humidity does to one's being.  It'll be a pleasant, warm, summer day with plentiful sunshine, temps in the mid-80s and NW winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight... mostly clear, temps in the low-70s and West winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... intervals of clouds and sunshine, temps in the low-80s and E-SE winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow night... clouds filter in and we have a 40% chance of rain beginning around mid-night.  Speaking of tomorrow... the humidity will begin to creep on up again.  Get ready to sweat!  
High Tide: 10:01AM
Low Tide: 3:38PM
Ocean Temp: 77°
Sunrise: 5:58AM
Sunset: 8:14PM
UV Index: 8.6 (high)
Rip Currents: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,591,186
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,266
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,663
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 313

Friday, July 29, 2022

It's Friday

Mornin'!  It's 80° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 88% with a dewpoint of 72°.  Breezes are out of the W-SW at 3-6mph.  It's hazy with some cloud cover and occasional peeks of sunshine.  Expect partly sunny skies this morning giving way to mostly cloudy skies by this afternoon. There's a 70% chance of rain or even a possible thunderstorm.  Some of these afternoon storms along the coast could contain damaging winds. Temps will rise a couple degrees to the mid-80s with Southerly breezes at 5-10mph.  Tonight... 80% chance of rain and/or thunderstorms giving way to partly cloudy skies after midnight.  Temps will drop into the low-70s with West winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... sunshine mixed with intervals of clouds and a high of 85° with W-NW winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow night... partly cloudy with temps in the low-mid 70s.  Sunday... partly to most sunny with temps in the mid-upper 80s and lovely seasbreezes.  
High Tide: 9:22AM
Low Tide: 2:59M
Ocean Temp: 77°
Sunrise: 5:57AM
Sunset: 8:15PM
UV Index: 4.5 (low)
Rip Currents: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,587,104
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,256
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,629
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 313
And, you know what today is... It's Friday Beach Tip Day! 


Friday Beach Tips:
Stuff to pack for the beach - shoes. Always wear footwear as the beach sand is extremely hot.  That includes the kiddies... always insist they wear footwear.  I pack bottled water, a spray bottle of water for you never know what, a hat, sunblock, insect repellent (in case the winds shift from the west (land breeze) those "West winds" bring the biting green head flies), first aid kit (I include a tiny bottle of vinegar for jelly fish stings just in case), a towel, shade (umbrella, canopy of some type), a bungee cord to secure your umbrella for those windy days, something to read, sanitizing wipes or wet washcloth, a small trash bag to collect the trash you may accumulate. I always pack my crocheting project as I find crocheting on the beach very relaxing.  Some of my best baby blankets are full of briny, salty yarn!  
*When setting up your spot at the beach, give those around you a little courtesy and not set up too close to them.  It's always amazing to watch arriving folk completely unaware of their actions as they begin setting up their umbrella, blanket and chair only inches away from folks settled in.  Most beaches are huge (with the exception of North Wildwood) and there are blocks and blocks of available, open beach space yet it sometimes feels like new arrivals seek out people to sit right next to.  It happens more often than not and I have yet to figure out this strange phenomenon. There's plenty of beach to go round.
*Know your "tide" times.  You can always ask the lifeguard as they will know high tide.  If the tide is at its highest when you arrive, you can set up right at the water line and watch the beach as the water recedes creating a bigger and bigger beach. It takes the water 6 hours to slip into low tide.  It takes 6 hours for the tide to go from High to Low and then turn around and begin to go from Low to High (12 hour total).  The beach tides are one hour sooner than the back bay / marsh tides too by the way. 
*Tips for setting up your umbrella: be aware of the wind direction and wind speed.  On a windy day, take those extra steps to secure your umbrella.  Sand screws or sand grabbers are great for securing umbrellas and it's best to dig a hole first before twisting that screw in and of course packing the sand around it.  Also, a bungee cord attached to the umbrella and then to your cooler, beach cart or beach bag works wonders for securing it for those real windy days. It's not uncommon to see umbrellas launched by the winds and more often than not into unknowing folks who are about to be impaled by your airborne, out of control umbrella.  It's inevitably happens while the entire family is in the ocean not realizing that their umbrella flew 2 blocks away.  Oh... when opening your umbrella... always point the umbrella toward the wind as this phenomenon never disappoints.  Most of the time, folks turn their back toward the wind and open the umbrella bringing about an inside out, uncontrolled umbrella giving you lots of air time. 
*Beach Courtesy: Begin by teaching your children courtesy at the beach. Teach them not to run or chase one another around someone else's blanket or chair.  Teach them not to walk or run on or close to someone's blanket. I've seen toddlers who take off running onto anyone's blanket in their path.  Wildwood's sand is light and very fine and is inevitably kicked up innocently by those passing by your chair or blanket.  Wildwood sand is fantastic but can be a nuisance if wind-blown all over everything and everyone.  It's always getting kicked up.  Keeping aware of it really helps.
*When shaking out towels or blankets, be conscious of the wind direction and shake away from those in the line of "sand" fire.
*Advice for parents of toddlers on the beach (1-2 year olds)... bring a "pack-n-play" for them as I can assure you that your beach day will be much more enjoyable with those babes surrounded with toys and snacks in their little mesh, private encampment under an umbrella.  Your babe will enjoy the beach much more when she/he has had some controlled beach time right alongside you.  Not to mention they won't be as sandy while enjoying snacks, lunch, a bottle, a diaper change, not to mention a nice sea-breeze induced nap.  You'll be nearby relaxing and enjoying your beach time while they do the same.  I recently saw a young couple of a baby not old enough to walk, dig a round trench about 6" deep and place a piece of plastic (much like a part of a shower curtain) over the 2-3' wide hole and fill it with the ocean water so the babe could sit inside the makeshift puddle being entertained and cooled off as they played in their own little ocean pool.  It was ingenious.
*If you enjoy music on the beach... remember to pack your headphones.  Believe it or not, the majority of beach folk would much rather listen to the sounds of the surf or perhaps soft conversation; not the loud bass or hip hop profanity blasting next to them from your Bluetooth speakers.  Sorry... but it's something that happens quite often and it sucks.  I've left the beach many times due to loud, obnoxious music. 
*There is "no smoking" on the beach (at least where everyone's camped out).  That includes cigarettes, pipes, cigars and joints.  Wildwood Crest has a designated smoking area by the dunes.  There's also "no smoking" on the boardwalk.  New Jersey has legalized Marijuana and you can smoke it privately on your property but you can't do it in public.  There are no Pot dispensaries in Wildwood.
*For the pooches, there are two dog parks right on the beach.  At 24th and the Beach in North Wildwood and one in Wildwood between Glenwood and Maple on the Beach as well (it's exceptional).  Read the posted rules... no food being one of them.  Dogs must always be on a leash when not in the dog parks. *Feeding seagulls is a no-no.  Eat and snack smartly.  Waving hands when expressing oneself while holding lunch is a magnet for swooping gulls.  Drop just one potato chip and you'll have seagull havoc.  Eat conscientiously under your umbrella or chair canopy.  Seagulls are vultures and are smart and endlessly eyeing beach goers eating habits.  They're relentless in trying to find the opportune moment to swoop down and pluck lunch right out of your hand or mouth (seen it happen many times).  By the way, seagulls know "chip bags" and if you have an unsupervised beach bag with chip bags exposed, they'll think nothing of helping themselves to that bag and will share their newly acquired bag of chips with all their gull family and friends while you're in the ocean as 40 gulls enjoy a beach party on your blanket.
*Playing ball, Frisbee, horseshoes, corn hole, kite-flying, ladder toss, spike ball, paddle ball, volley ball, Kan-jam, beach darts, you-name-it etc. are not allowed to be set up and played where beach-goers are camped.  Go back by the dunes where the big beach is empty and no one is sitting to enjoy your more active beach games.
*Observe all posted signs and warnings... Beach closures for whatever reason... rip currents, storms, "surfing only" beaches, no alcohol or pot, no dogs or pets etc.  If in doubt, just ask the lifeguards.
*Never leave trash on the beach.  Better yet, pick up any that you may see whether it's yours or not.  There are many, many trash and recycle containers on the beach and surrounding areas.  You might as well use them rather than let all that trash make its way into the ocean for the fish to eat or get tangled in. Remember... whatever the fish eat, we eat too.  Plastic is an epidemic.  Speaking of plastic... New Jersey no longer has plastic bags available.  It's now all about bringing your reusable bags to save the planet from those fly-away, take-forever-to-disintegrate plastic bags.
*Lastly, be courteous. Courtesy is key.  Be kind and considerate to all those enjoying this beautiful moment right along with you. It's a lot of fun being at the beach.  Try not to bring those unmindful, mean spirited, (sometimes "vulgar") nasty, moods. We can all take the time and effort to make a really nice beach day even nicer.  It's easy. Happy Beaching!


Thursday, July 28, 2022

Partly Cloudy - Partly Sunny

Mornin'!  It's 76° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 95% with a dewpoint of 75°.  Breezes are barely there out of the W-SW at 2-4mph.  There's plenty of cloud cover along the ocean side of the island yet the marsh side have clouds that are beginning to clear on out of here and show some blue sky.  It's heavy with humidity again and feels almost oppressive when stepping outside.  It's going to be very humid again today with 15% chance of rain during the day and 40% chance of showers by tonight.  Temps will get into the mid-upper 80s with SW winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight... 40% chance of scattered showers and/or thunderstorms but clouds clearing out after midnight.  Temps will drop to where they are now... mid-70s with Westerly breezes at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... partly sunny, temps in the mid-upper 80s and SW winds at 10-15mph.  The weekend's still looking A-OK with partly sunny skies, temps in the mid-upper 80s and light breezes.
High Tide: 8:43AM
Low Tide: 2:17PM
Ocean Temp: 77°
Sunrise: 5:56AM
Sunset: 8:16PM
UV Index: 8.4
Rip Currents: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,582,493
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,253
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,581
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 313

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

Hump Day Mix of Clouds and Sun

Mornin'!  Happy Hump Day!  It's 71° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 99% with a dewpoint of 71°.  Breezes are barely there out of the NE at 2-4mph.  In a couple hours it will shift from the E-SE at 4-6mph.  We're currently under thick, gray cloud cover after some overnight rains.  The air is very still and briny and everything's dripping wet.  On the doppler, there are rain showers all around us but Wildwood's currently not getting any.  Expect thick clouds this morning with 25% chance of rain showers.  By this afternoon, things will begin to clear as it'll become partly sunny with only a slight chance of a rain shower or two.  Temps will be in the low-80s with SE breezes at 5-10mph.  Tonight.... partly clear skies with increasing clouds and periods of rain late (40% chance).  Temps will be in the mid-70s with S-SW breezes at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... mostly cloudy day with a stray shower or thunderstorm possible (25% chance).  Temps will be in the mid-upper 80s with SW winds at 10-15mph.  At this time, the weekend's looking pretty nice with both days being partly to mostly sunny and temps in the mid-80s.
High Tide: 8:01AM
Low Tide: 1:33PM
Ocean Temp: 76°
Sunrise: 5:55AM
Sunset: 8:17PM
UV Index: 9 (high)
Rip Current: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,577,745
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,240
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,552
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 313

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

Unsettled Weather Day

Today's Webcam Shots - North Wildwood
Mornin'!  It's 75° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 96% with a dewpoint of 75°.  Breezes (barely there) are out of the W-NW at 3-5mph. It's cloudy with peeks of sunshine coming through the clouds along the horizon along the ocean.  It looks like it may be a mostly cloudy day with considerable cloudiness, occasional rain showers (50% chance), temps tapping 80° and NE breezes at 5-10mph.  Tonight... still cloudy with 60% chance of rain showers, winds light and variable and temps around 70°.  Tomorrow... rain showers early (50% chance) with peeks of sun beginning around mid-day.  Temps will be around 80° along with Easterly breezes at 5-10mph.  The remainder of the week still looks unsettled with the possibility of rain every day until Saturday.  And, the "New Moon" is Thursday which will be bringing higher than normal tides.  Keep your eye on the sky and be aware of those low-lying flood areas on the island.
High Tides: 7:17AM and 7:30PM
Low Tide: 12:47PM
Ocean Temp: 76°
Sunrise: 5:54AM
Sunset: 8:17PM
UV Index: 2.5 Low
Rip Current: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,574,316
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,222
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,531
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 313

Monday, July 25, 2022

Unsettled Weather Ahead

Mornin'!  It's 71° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 96% with a dewpoint of 74°.  Ms Sun's up and shining brightly through the hazy sky and winds are somewhat stiff out of the S-SW at 15-20mph.  It'll be a mostly sunny morning then clouds filter in by this afternoon.  There's a 70% chance of thunderstorms this afternoon with a potential for severe storms and heavy rain.  Temps will be in the mid-upper 80s with S-SW winds at 15-25mph.  Tonight... 80% chance of thunderstorms, then scattered rain showers into the overnight.  Temps will drop to the mid-70s with W-SW winds at 10-20mph.  Tomorrow... mostly cloudy, temps in the low-80s with North winds at 5-10mph.  I hate to be the bearer of bad news but this entire week right up until next Monday, looks unsettled with chance of rain and/or thunderstorms on each day's weather forecast.  If this is your summer vacation week in Wildwood, keep your eye on the sky as you proceed with your daily seashore plans. These storms are dangerous at times and could also cause tidal flooding. Oh, the "New Moon" is this week (Thursday) which creates the exact same pull on the Tides as the Full Moon does even though the moon is invisible.  Expect higher than normal tides beginning around Tuesday or Wednesday of this week.  Remember too that if it's doing that summer "torrential-tropical" rain thing, those low-lying areas on the island will no doubt flood.  And, the ocean high tide is an hour sooner than the marsh high tide (the back end of the island).  Don't drive through flood waters and be aware of where you park you vehicle during high tide times if flood waters are the norm in your area.  Be aware of flood-prone zones on the island. 
High Tides: 6:29AM and 6:46PM
Low Tides: 12:02PM
Ocean Temp: 76°
Sunrise: 5:53AM
Sunset: 8:18PM
UV Index: 9 (high)
Rip Current: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,572,621
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,218
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,514
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 313  

Sunday, July 24, 2022

(Hazy) Sunny Sunday

Mornin'!  It's 78° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 91% with a dewpoint of 75°.  Ms Sun's shining.  Breezes are out of the SW at 4-6mph.  It'll be another hazy, hot and humid day with mostly sunny conditions, high of 90° and SW breezes at 4-6mph turning into winds out of the S-SW at 15-25mph by this afternoon. Make sure you pack a bungee or sandgrabber for your umbrella if heading to the beach this afternoon.  Tonight... clear with a few passing clouds, temps in the upper 70s and S-SW winds at 15-25mph.  Tomorrow... partly cloudy in the morning with thunderstorms developing later in the day with a potential for severe storms.  Temps will be around 90° with those ol' S-SW winds at 15-25mph.  Chance of rain is 60% with it rising to 90% by nightfall.  Tuesday looks to be mostly cloudy with rain in the forecast (60% chance). 
High Tide: 5:58PM
Low Tide: 11:16AM
Ocean Temp: 75°
Sunrise: 5:52AM
Sunset: 8:19PM
UV Index: 9.3 (very high)
Rip Current: Moderate (If you plan on entering the surf, be sure to swim within sight of a lifeguard and never swim alone or at night.)
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,569,202
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,217
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,487
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 313

Saturday, July 23, 2022

The Heat Wave Continues... And, It's Christmas In July in the Wildwoods

Mornin'!  It's 78° in Wildwood NJ.  Ms Sun's up and shining through the hazy sky.  Humidity's 89% with a dewpoint of 75°.  Winds are out of the W-NW at 4-6mph.  It's a warm one again as we're in the midst of a nice summer heatwave.  It's going to hit the 90° mark again with a generally sunny (hazy) day on tap.  Winds will be out of the W-SW at 10-15mph.  Tonight... clear to partly cloudy, temps around 75° and S-SW winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow... mostly sunny, becoming windy in the afternoon.  Temps will be in the upper 80s and S-SW winds at 20-30mph.  Reminder: It's going to be a scorcher... footwear, umbrella, hat, water etc. (just check my Friday beach tips). 
High Tide: 5:07PM
Low Tide: 10:28AM
Ocean Temp: 75°
Sunrise: 5:52AM
Sunset: 8:20PM
UV Index: 9.3 (very high)
Rip Current: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,565,176
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,206
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,451
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 313

Friday, July 22, 2022

Happy Friday!

Mornin'!  It's 75° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 97% with a dewpoint of 76°.  Ms Sun's up and once again shining through the hazy sky.  Winds are out of the W-NW at 4-8mph.  It's going to be another scorcher with hazy, hot and humid conditions.  Expect sunny to partly sunny skies, temps getting up near the 90s with W-SW breezes at 10-15mph.  Tonight... clear to partly cloudy, temps where they are now... mid-70s with SW breezes at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... more of the same.  Sunday... more of the same.
High Tide: 4:14PM
Low Tide: 9:38AM
Ocean Temp: 76°
Sunrise: 5:51AM
Sunset: 8:21PM
UV Index: 9.1 (very high)
Rip Current: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,560,841
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,196
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,409
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 313

And, can't forget the Friday Beach Tips...

Friday Beach Tips:
Stuff to pack for the beach - shoes. Always wear footwear as the beach sand is extremely hot.  That includes the kiddies... always insist they wear footwear.  I pack bottled water, a spray bottle of water for you never know what, a hat, sunblock, insect repellent (in case the winds shift from the west (land breeze) those "West winds" bring the biting green head flies), first aid kit (I include a tiny bottle of vinegar for jelly fish stings just in case), a towel, shade (umbrella, canopy of some type), a bungee cord to secure your umbrella for those windy days, something to read, sanitizing wipes or wet washcloth, a small trash bag to collect the trash you may accumulate. I always pack my crocheting project as I find crocheting on the beach very relaxing.  Some of my best baby blankets are full of briny, salty yarn!  
*When setting up your spot at the beach, give those around you a little courtesy and not set up too close to them.  It's always amazing to watch arriving folk completely unaware of their actions as they begin setting up their umbrella, blanket and chair only inches away from folks settled in.  Most beaches are huge (with the exception of North Wildwood) and there are blocks and blocks of available, open beach space yet it sometimes feels like new arrivals seek out people to sit right next to.  It happens more often than not and I have yet to figure out this strange phenomenon. There's plenty of beach to go round.
*Know your "tide" times.  You can always ask the lifeguard as they will know high tide.  If the tide is at its highest when you arrive, you can set up right at the water line and watch the beach as the water recedes creating a bigger and bigger beach. It takes the water 6 hours to slip into low tide.  It takes 6 hours for the tide to go from High to Low and then turn around and begin to go from Low to High (12 hour total).  The beach tides are one hour sooner than the back bay / marsh tides too by the way. 
*Tips for setting up your umbrella: be aware of the wind direction and wind speed.  On a windy day, take those extra steps to secure your umbrella.  Sand screws or sand grabbers are great for securing umbrellas and it's best to dig a hole first before twisting that screw in and of course packing the sand around it.  Also, a bungee cord attached to the umbrella and then to your cooler, beach cart or beach bag works wonders for securing it for those real windy days. It's not uncommon to see umbrellas launched by the winds and more often than not into unknowing folks who are about to be impaled by your airborne, out of control umbrella.  It's inevitably happens while the entire family is in the ocean not realizing that their umbrella flew 2 blocks away.  Oh... when opening your umbrella... always point the umbrella toward the wind as this phenomenon never disappoints.  Most of the time, folks turn their back toward the wind and open the umbrella bringing about an inside out, uncontrolled umbrella giving you lots of air time. 
*Beach Courtesy: Begin by teaching your children courtesy at the beach. Teach them not to run or chase one another around someone else's blanket or chair.  Teach them not to walk or run on or close to someone's blanket. I've seen toddlers who take off running onto anyone's blanket in their path.  Wildwood's sand is light and very fine and is inevitably kicked up innocently by those passing by your chair or blanket.  Wildwood sand is fantastic but can be a nuisance if wind-blown all over everything and everyone.  It's always getting kicked up.  Keeping aware of it really helps.
*When shaking out towels or blankets, be conscious of the wind direction and shake away from those in the line of "sand" fire.
*Advice for parents of toddlers on the beach (1-2 year olds)... bring a "pack-n-play" for them as I can assure you that your beach day will be much more enjoyable with those babes surrounded with toys and snacks in their little mesh, private encampment under an umbrella.  Your babe will enjoy the beach much more when she/he has had some controlled beach time right alongside you.  Not to mention they won't be as sandy while enjoying snacks, lunch, a bottle, a diaper change, not to mention a nice sea-breeze induced nap.  You'll be nearby relaxing and enjoying your beach time while they do the same.  I recently saw a young couple of a baby not old enough to walk, dig a round trench about 6" deep and place a piece of plastic (much like a part of a shower curtain) over the 2-3' wide hole and fill it with the ocean water so the babe could sit inside the makeshift puddle being entertained and cooled off as they played in their own little ocean pool.  It was ingenious.
*If you enjoy music on the beach... remember to pack your headphones.  Believe it or not, the majority of beach folk would much rather listen to the sounds of the surf or perhaps soft conversation; not the loud bass or hip hop profanity blasting next to them from your Bluetooth speakers.  Sorry... but it's something that happens quite often and it sucks.  I've left the beach many times due to loud, obnoxious music. 
*There is "no smoking" on the beach (at least where everyone's camped out).  That includes cigarettes, pipes, cigars and joints.  Wildwood Crest has a designated smoking area by the dunes.  There's also "no smoking" on the boardwalk.  New Jersey has legalized Marijuana and you can smoke it privately on your property but you can't do it in public.  There are no Pot dispensaries in Wildwood.
*For the pooches, there are two dog parks right on the beach.  At 24th and the Beach in North Wildwood and one in Wildwood between Glenwood and Maple on the Beach as well (it's exceptional).  Read the posted rules... no food being one of them.  Dogs must always be on a leash when not in the dog parks. *Feeding seagulls is a no-no.  Eat and snack smartly.  Waving hands when expressing oneself while holding lunch is a magnet for swooping gulls.  Drop just one potato chip and you'll have seagull havoc.  Eat conscientiously under your umbrella or chair canopy.  Seagulls are vultures and are smart and endlessly eyeing beach goers eating habits.  They're relentless in trying to find the opportune moment to swoop down and pluck lunch right out of your hand or mouth (seen it happen many times).  By the way, seagulls know "chip bags" and if you have an unsupervised beach bag with chip bags exposed, they'll think nothing of helping themselves to that bag and will share their newly acquired bag of chips with all their gull family and friends while you're in the ocean as 40 gulls enjoy a beach party on your blanket.
*Playing ball, Frisbee, horseshoes, corn hole, kite-flying, ladder toss, spike ball, paddle ball, volley ball, Kan-jam, beach darts, you-name-it etc. are not allowed to be set up and played where beach-goers are camped.  Go back by the dunes where the big beach is empty and no one is sitting to enjoy your more active beach games.
*Observe all posted signs and warnings... Beach closures for whatever reason... rip currents, storms, "surfing only" beaches, no alcohol or pot, no dogs or pets etc.  If in doubt, just ask the lifeguards.
*Never leave trash on the beach.  Better yet, pick up any that you may see whether it's yours or not.  There are many, many trash and recycle containers on the beach and surrounding areas.  You might as well use them rather than let all that trash make its way into the ocean for the fish to eat or get tangled in. Remember... whatever the fish eat, we eat too.  Plastic is an epidemic.  Speaking of plastic... New Jersey no longer has plastic bags available.  It's now all about bringing your reusable bags to save the planet from those fly-away, take-forever-to-disintegrate plastic bags.
*Lastly, be courteous. Courtesy is key.  Be kind and considerate to all those enjoying this beautiful moment right along with you. It's a lot of fun being at the beach.  Try not to bring those unmindful, mean spirited, (sometimes "vulgar") nasty, moods. We can all take the time and effort to make a really nice beach day even nicer.  It's easy. Happy Beaching!

Thursday, July 21, 2022

Hazy Hot Humid

Mornin'!  It's 77° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 95% with a dewpoint of 76°.  Winds are out of the S-SW at 10-12mph.  The sky is hazy as Ms Sun's doing her best to shine through.  It'll be sunny early then clouds begin to increase and scattered rain showers and/or thunderstorms are on the weather menu for this afternoon.  Some storms may contain strong gusty winds with torrential rainfall.  Temps will just get into the 90s (Heat Index: 102°) with S-SW winds at 10-20mph.  Chance of those storms happening this afternoon is 40%.  Tonight... partly cloudy, temps back down into the mid-70s with W-SW winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow... mostly clear, temps around 90° and those West winds are on tap at 5-10mph (pack the insect repellent tomorrow).  The weekend's still looking sunny and hot so prepare accordingly. 
High tide: 3:23PM
Low tide: 8:45AM
Ocean temp: 76°
Sunrise: 5:50AM
Sunset: 8:21PM
UV Index: 9.4 (high)
Rip Current: Low
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,556,303
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,189
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,362
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 313

Wednesday, July 20, 2022

Hot Hump Day

Mornin'!  It's 76° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 96% with a dewpoint of 74°.  Ms Sun's up and shining through the hazy sky.  Breezes are barely there out of the W-SW at 3-5mph.  It's warm out there.  We're in the midst of a heatwave as temps climbed to near 90° yesterday and will do it again today.  Today's weather: sunny, high near 90° (feeling like 99°) with SW breezes at 8-10mph becoming Southerly by the afternoon at 10-15mph.  Humidity will drop as the day unfolds and will climb up again late tonight. Tonight's weather: clear, temps in the mid-upper 70s (humidity 86%) and S-SW winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow... sunny with a few afternoon clouds, 25% chance of a stray/pop-up shower and/or thunderstorm, temps near 90° and S-SW winds at 10-15mph.  At this time, the weekend (Christmas in July Celebrations in the Wildwoods) looks like nice weather with Saturday being sunny, temps near 90° and Sunday being partly sunny with temps in the mid-upper 80s.  Remember to pack those important necessary items for your beach day... plenty of water, sunscreen, insect repellent, an umbrella or some kind of sun shade, footwear (the beach sand is red hot) as well as a hat.  
High Tide: 2:33PM
Low Tide: 7:50AM
Ocean Temp: 76°
Sunrise: 5:49AM
Sunset: 8:22PM
UV Index: 9.8
(very high)
Rip Current: Low Risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,552,342
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,714
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,320
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 313

Tuesday, July 19, 2022

A Lovely Tuesday


Mornin'!  It's 77° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 86% with a dewpoint of 74°.  Ms Sun's up and shining through the clear, blue sky and breezes light out of the W-NW at 6-8mph.  It'll be a partly sunny day with a stray, pop-up shower or thunderstorm possible (15% chance).  Temps will be in the upper 80s with W-SW winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight... clear skies, temps in the low-mid 70s and W-SW winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... plentiful sunshine, temps in the mid-upper 80s and SW winds at 10-15mph.  Thursday... more of the same. In fact, if this week (one of the most popular weeks for vacationers in Wildwood) is the week you're on vacation here, you've picked a winner as the rest of this week is looking like a repeat of today... perfection!
High Tide: 1:42PM
Low Tide: 6:58AM
Ocean Temp: 76°
Sunrise: 5:48AM
Sunset: 8:23PM
UV Index: 8.8
Rip Current: Low
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,548,015
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,163
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,275
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311

Monday, July 18, 2022

Blustery Monday

Mornin'!  It's 74° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 89% with a dewpoint of 73°.  Ms Sun's shining through the hazy, mostly cloudy sky and winds are out of the S-SW at 10-15mph.  It'll be partly sunny today with lots of hazy sky and clouds.  Winds will be the main event out of the South at 20-30mph +gusting. If heading to the beach, make sure you pack a sandgrabber and/or bungee for that umbrella that'll surely be fighting those winds today.  Temps will be in the low-mid 80s.  Tonight... still windy with 60% chance of scattered thunderstorms in the evening with skies turning mostly cloudy after midnight.  Temps will go back down to where they are now (low-mid 70s) and those W-SW winds are staying checked in at 20-30mph and on the overnight decreasing to 5-10mph by early morning.  Tomorrow... mostly sunny, temps in the mid-80s and W-SW winds at 5-10mph.
High Tide: 12:50PM
Low Tide: 6:33PM
Ocean Temp: 75°
Sunrise: 5:48AM
Sunset: 8:24PM
UV Index: 8.9 (very high)
Rip Current: Moderate (dangerous rip currents today due to the windy conditions.  Only swim near a lifeguard and never alone or at night)
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,545,959
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,159
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,246
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311

Sunday, July 17, 2022

Hazy, Hot and Humid Sunday

Mornin'!  It's 74° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 96% with a dewpoint of 71°.  It's a hazy and warm Sunday morning with hardly a breeze out of the SW at 3-5mph.  It'll be a partly sunny day with a stray shower or thunderstorm possible before 1pm. Temps will be in the low-mid 80s with S-SW winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight... mostly cloudy, temps back to where they are right now (74°) with winds out of the S-SW at 10-15mph and a 20% chance of a shower and/or thunderstorm.  Tomorrow... a clear, sunny start becoming cloudy and windy after 2-3pm.  A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible with temps in the low-80s.  We could see rain in the afternoon as well as the evening.  Tomorrow afternoon, the winds will kick up big time and be out of the S-SW at 20-30mph.  Batten down the hatches!  Tuesday and Wednesday... appear to be so far, so good!
High Tide: 11:55AM
Low Tide: 5:38PM
Ocean Temp: 75°
Sunrise: 5:47AM
Sunset: 8:24PM
UV Index: 8.6 (very high)
Rip Current: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,542,830
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,159
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,226
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311

Saturday, July 16, 2022

It's The Weekend! The Jeeps Are On The Island!

Mornin'!  It's 76° in Wildwood NJ.  It's sunny with humidity high at 91% and a dewpoint of 72°.  Winds are barely there at 4-6mph.  It'll be a hazy, partly sunny day with a 15% chance of a shower or thunderstorm possibly later as clouds filter in and the afternoon sky becomes mostly cloudy.  Temps will be in the low-80s with S-SE winds at 5-10mph.  Tonight... variable cloud cover with scattered thunderstorms in the area.  Temps will drop down to about 71° with S-SW winds at 5-10mph.  Chance of rain is 50%. During the overnight, there will 50% chance of rain as we could very possibly wake to rain showers in the morning.  Tomorrow... sunny in the morning after the overnight clouds and possible rains. Clouds will be increasing in the afternoon as there's a 25% chance of a stray shower or thunderstorm is possible.  Temps will be in the low-80s again with Southerly breezes at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow night... mostly cloudy, isolated rain showers and/or thunderstorms developing after midnight (30% chance) with temps in the low-70s and S-SW winds at 5-10mph.  

High Tide: 10:58AM
Low Tide: 4:45PM
Ocean Temp: 75°
Sunrise: 5:46AM
Sunset: 8:25PM
UV Index: 8 (very high)
Rip Current: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,539,038
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,152
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,194
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311


Friday, July 15, 2022

It's Friday! And, it's the Wildwood Jeep Invasion Weekend!

Mornin'!  It's 74° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 86% with a dewpoint of 69°.  NE breezes are barely there at 3-5mph.  It was drizzling rain a couple hours ago but now we're back to dry conditions.  No sunshine yet this morning; only white sky with lots of cloud cover at the moment.  Expect cloud cover this morning but peeks of sunshine will be happening later this afternoon.  There's also a 15% chance of a stray afternoon thunderstorm.  Temps will be hovering around 80° with Easterly winds at 5-10mph.  Tonight... mainly clear, temps around 70° and SW winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... a repeat of today.  Sunday... chance of rain (30%) in the morning with lots of clouds on the weather menu. 
Yesterday, by the way, the Greenhead flies were biting as we had the "West" winds on tap.  I got one bite and after using my insect repellent was fine.  No more bites out of me I'm happy to say.   There's lots going on this weekend.  Check out the Events Calendar on my blog page.
High Tide: 10:02AM
Low Tide: 3:52PM
Ocean Temp: 73°
Sunrise: 5:45AM
Sunset: 8:25PM
UV Index: 8.0
Rip Current: Low
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,535,067
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,145
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,150
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311

And, it's Friday...

Friday Beach Tips:
Stuff to pack for the beach - shoes. Always wear footwear as the beach sand is extremely hot. Don't forget the kids... insist they wear something on their feet.  I pack bottled water, a spray bottle of water for you never know what, a hat, footwear, towel, sunblock, insect repellent (in case the winds shift from the west (land breeze) those "West winds" bring the biting green head flies), first aid kit (I include a tiny bottle of vinegar for jelly fish stings just in case), shade (umbrella, canopy of some type), a bungee cord to secure your umbrella for those windy days, something to read, sanitizing wipes or wet washcloth, a small trash bag to collect the trash you may accumulate. I always pack my crocheting project as I find crocheting on the beach very relaxing.  Some of my best baby blankets are full of briny yarn!  
*When setting up your spot (campsite) at the beach, give those around you a little courtesy and not set up too close to them.  It's always amazing to watch arriving folk completely unaware of their actions as they begin setting up their umbrella, blanket and chair only inches away from folks settled in.  Most beaches are huge (with the exception of North Wildwood) and there are blocks and blocks of available, open beach space yet it sometimes feels like new arrivals seek out people to sit nearby.  It happens more often than not and I have yet to figure out this strange phenomenon. There's plenty of beach to go round.
*Know your "tide" times.  You can always ask the lifeguard as they will know high tide.  If the tide is at its highest when you arrive, you can set up right at the water line and watch the beach grow bigger and bigger as the tide subsides taking 6 hours to slip into low tide.  It takes 6 hours for the tide to go from High to Low and then turn around and begin to go from Low to High (12 hour total).
*Tips for setting up your umbrella: be aware of the wind direction and wind speed.  On a windy day, take those extra steps to secure your umbrella.  Sand screws or sand grabbers are great for securing umbrellas and it's best to dig a hole first before twisting that screw in and of course packing the sand around it.  Also, a bungee cord attached to the umbrella and then to your cooler or beach cart works wonders for securing it for those real windy days. It's not uncommon to see umbrellas launched by the winds and more often than not into unknowing folks who are about to be impaled by your airborne, out of control umbrella.  It's inevitably happens while the entire family is in the ocean not realizing that their umbrella flew 2 blocks away.  Oh... when opening your umbrella... always point the umbrella toward the wind as this phenomenon never disappoints.  Most of the time, folks turn their back toward the wind and open the umbrella bringing about an inside out, uncontrolled umbrella giving you lots of air time. 
*Beach Courtesy: Begin by teaching your children courtesy at the beach. Teach them not to run or chase one another around someone else's blanket or chair.  Teach them not to walk or run on or close to someone's blanket. I've seen toddlers who take off running onto anyone's blanket in their path.  Wildwood's sand is light and very fine and is inevitably kicked up innocently by those passing by your chair or blanket.  Wildwood sand is fantastic but can be a nuisance if wind-blown all over everything and everyone.  It's always getting innocently kicked up.  Keeping aware of it really helps.
*When shaking out towels or blankets, be conscious of the wind direction and shake away from those in the line of "sand" fire.
*Advice for parents of toddlers on the beach (1-2 year olds)... bring a "pack-n-play" for them as I can assure you that your beach day will be much more enjoyable with those babes surrounded with toys and snacks in their little mesh, private encampment under an umbrella.  Your babe will enjoy the beach much more when she/he has had some controlled beach time right alongside you.  Not to mention they won't be as sandy as they could be all the while enjoying snacks, lunch, a bottle, a diaper change, not to mention a nice sea-breeze induced nap.  You'll be nearby relaxing and enjoying your beach time while they do the same.  I recently saw a young couple of a baby not old enough to walk, dig a round trench about 6" deep and place a piece of plastic (much like a part of a shower curtain) over the 2-3' wide hole and fill it with the ocean water so the babe could sit inside the makeshift puddle being entertained and cooled off as they played in their own little ocean pool.  It was ingenious.
*If you enjoy music on the beach... remember to pack your headphones.  Believe it or not, the majority of beach folk would much rather listen to the sounds of the surf or perhaps soft conversation; not the loud bass or hip hop profanity blasting next to them from your Bluetooth speakers.  Sorry... but it's something that happens a lot and it sucks.
*There is "no smoking" on the beach (at least where everyone's camped out).  That includes cigarettes, pipes, cigars and joints.  Wildwood Crest has a designated smoking area by the dunes.  There's also "no smoking" on the boardwalk.  New Jersey has legalized Marijuana and you can smoke it privately on your property but you can't do it in public.  There are no Pot dispensaries in Wildwood.
*For the pooches, there are two dog parks right on the beach.  At 24th and the Beach in North Wildwood and one in Wildwood between Glenwood and Maple on the Beach as well (it's exceptional).  Read the posted rules... no food being one of them.  Dogs must always be on a leash when not in the dog parks. *Feeding seagulls is a no-no.  Eat and snack smartly.  Waving hands when expressing oneself while holding lunch is a magnet for swooping gulls.  Drop just one potato chip and you'll have seagull havoc.  Eat conscientiously under your umbrella or chair canopy.  Seagulls are vultures and are smart and endlessly eyeing beach goers eating habits.  They're relentless in trying to find the opportune moment to swoop down and pluck lunch right out of your hand or mouth (seen it happen many times).  By the way, seagulls know "chip bags" and if you have an unsupervised beach bag with chip bags exposed, they'll think nothing of helping themselves to that bag and will share their newly acquired bag of chips with all their gull family and friends while you're in the ocean as 40 gulls enjoy a beach party on your blanket.
*Playing ball, Frisbee, horseshoes, corn hole, kite-flying, ladder toss, spike ball, paddle ball, volley ball, Kan-jam, beach darts, you-name-it etc. are not allowed to be set up and played where beach-goers are camped.  Go back by the dunes where the big beach is empty and no one is sitting to enjoy your more active beach games.
*Observe all posted signs and warnings... Beach closures for whatever reason... rip currents, storms, "surfing only" beaches, no alcohol or pot, no dogs or pets etc.  If in doubt, just ask the lifeguards.
*Never leave trash on the beach.  Better yet, pick up any that you may see whether it's yours or not.  There are many, many trash and recycle containers on the beach and surrounding areas.  You might as well use them rather than let all that trash make its way into the ocean for the fish to eat or get tangled in. Remember... whatever the fish eat, we eat too.  Plastic is an epidemic.  Speaking of plastic... New Jersey no longer has plastic bags available.  It's now all about bringing your reusable bags to save the planet from those fly-away, take-forever-to-disintegrate plastic bags.
*Lastly, be courteous. Courtesy is key.  Be kind and considerate to all those enjoying this beautiful moment right along with you. It's a lot of fun being at the beach.  Try not to bring those unmindful, mean spirited, (sometimes "vulgar") nasty, moods. We can all take the time and effort to make a really nice beach day even nicer.  It's easy. Happy Beaching!

Thursday, July 14, 2022

Hazy Days

Mornin'!  It's 75° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 92% with a dewpoint of 74°.  Breezes are out of the West at 4-6mph.  It's a humid morning and kind of cloudy with those hazy morning skies.  The ocean side of the island is cloudier than the marsh side (according to the webcams) which seems to have much clearer skies. We're going to have a warm, sunny but hazy day today as temps climb into the mid-upper 80s.  Humidity's supposed to drop as those temps rise.  Breezes will be out of the West all day at 5-10mph.  Pack that insect repellent.  Tonight... mostly cloudy, temps will drop to the low-70s with SW winds at 5-10mph.  There's a 20% chance of precipitation tonight.  Tomorrow... partly sunny, temps in the low-80s with NE winds at 5-10mph.  There's still a 20% chance of rain for tomorrow.  Saturday... partly sunny, temps in the low-80s with South winds at 5-10mph and 20% chance of a pop-up shower.  Sunday... mostly sunny, temps in the mid-80s with 30% chance of precipitation.  
High Tide: 9:07AM
Low Tide: 2:58PM
Ocean Temp: 72°
Sunrise: 5:45AM
Sunset: 8:26PM
Moonrise: 9:46PM
UV Index: 7.9
Rip Currents: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,530,796
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,133
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,108
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311

Wednesday, July 13, 2022

Full "Buck" Moon Humpday

Mornin'!  It's 72° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 94% with a dewpoint of 71°.  Ms Sun's up and shining through the morning haze and the light breezes are out of the West at 4-6mph.  We've been watered with the overnight's passing rains and storms.  We had some thunder-boomers which lit up the night sky along with that Buck Full Moon.  Today's the actual Full Moon.  Expect a mix of sun and clouds today with lower humidity than what's going on now.  It's very damp and sticky out there this morning.  Today's humidity will hover around 65%.  Temps will get up into the mid-upper 80s with W-SW breezes at 5-10mph.  Tonight... clouds filter in as there's a 40% chance of those thunder-boomers again.  Be aware of those "extra" high tides especially if it's raining and filling up the streets in the flood prone areas.  Tonight's temps will be where they are now... low 70s along with SW winds at 5-10mph. Tomorrow... partly cloudy, temps in the mid-80s and W-SW winds at 5-10mph.  As for this weekend... Saturday looks like it's going to be partly cloudy (mostly cloudy actually) with temps in the upper 70s and East winds at 10-15mph. There's a 20% chance of rain.   And, Sunday looks mostly cloudy with thunderstorms in the morning as well as the evening (50% chance) with temps tapping 80° dropping to the mid-70s by evening.  
High Tide: 8:12AM and 8:33PM
Low Tide: 2:01PM
Ocean Temp: 72°
Sunrise: 5:44AM
Sunset: 8:26PM
Moonrise: 8:57PM
UV Index: 9.2 (Very High)
Rip Currents: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,527,086
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,126
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,068
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311

Tuesday, July 12, 2022

Another Sunny Day On Tap

Mornin"!  It's 70° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 92% with a dew point of 69°.  Breezes are out of the S-SW at 10-15mph.  And, most importantly... Ms Sun's shining brightly over the island without a cloud in sight.  It's another beautiful morning in Wildwood.  The birds are loving it too as the salty breezes are filled with birds singing.  Expect another sunny day with a 15% chance of a pop-up stray shower.  Temps will be in the low-80s today with winds out of the S-SW winds at 15-20mph.  Tonight... clouds check in as there's a 40% chance of an isolated thunderstorm (between 9pm-2am) as temps drop back to where they are now and those SW winds at 15-25mph.  Tomorrow... patchy fog in the morning, otherwise mostly sunny, temps in the mid-upper 80s with W-SW winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow night... clouds filter in as it'll be mostly cloudy with 20% chance of rain, temps around 70° and South winds at 5-10mph.  The Full "Buck" Moon is tomorrow.  We may not see the full moonrise for the next few days due to cloud cover.  I'll post the moonrise times just in case.  Note the high tides when passing the ocean, bay or marshes on those "high" tides times.  The island's swollen with those higher than normal tides.  Keep that in mind if or when it rains as island flooding in the low-lying areas is always possible.  Remember, not to drive through flood waters as it's salt water and very bad for the undercarriage of your vehicle. And, here's another reminder... the ocean's high tide time is always an hour earlier than the back bay/marsh tide times. 
High tide: 7:15AM and 7:40PM
Low tide: 1:03PM
Ocean temp: 72°
Sunrise: 5:43AM
Sunset: 8:27PM
Moonrise: 7:56PM
UV Index: 9.7 (very high)
Rip Current: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,522,649
Corona Virus Deaths in N: 35,112
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 25,015
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311

Monday, July 11, 2022

Lovely Monday

Mornin'!  It's 65° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 78% with a 62° dew point.  Ms Sun's up and shining in the deep blue, cloudless sky.  The birds are chirping and the seagulls are arguing about something waking those still sleeping.   And if that's not doing it, the little neighborhood dog's been outside barking since 5:45AM.  Life is good.  It's a beauty this start to the week.  It'll be a beautiful Monday as we'll have plenty of sunshine, blue skies, temps tapping 80° and E-SE breezes at 5-10mph.  Tonight... clear sky, temps around 70° and S-SW winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow... sunny, there's a 20% chance of a stray shower as temps tap 80° and winds much stiffer out of the S-SW at 15-20mph.  Wednesday... sunny, temps around 80° and breezes out of the W-NW at 6-9mph.  
High Tide: 6:14AM and 6:44PM
Low Tide: 12:04PM
Ocean Temp: 72°
Sunrise: 5:42AM
Sunset: 8:27PM
UV Index: 9.6 (very high)
Rip Current: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,520,736
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,109
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 24,989
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311

Sunday, July 10, 2022

Mostly Sunny Sunday

Mornin'!  It's 71° in Wildwood NJ.  We're under some fragments of cloud cover here and there but Ms Sun's up and doing what she can to bring on her sunshine.  After yesterday's all-day-rains, it looks to be a dry-out today.  Humidity's 89% with a dew point of 67°.  Breezes are out of the NE at 12-16mph.  It's a beautiful start to the day.  It'll be a mostly sunny Sunday with some periodic clouds in the mix.  Temps will almost tap 80° with East winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight... mostly clear, temps in the mid-60s and E-SE winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... sunny, high near 80° with East winds at 5-10mph.  Monday night... clear, temps in the upper 60s and South winds at 5-10mph.  Tuesday... sunny and warmer.  High near 85° and South winds at 10-15mph with gusting.  
High Tide: 5:45PM
Low Tide: 11:06AM
Sunrise: 5:42AM
Sunset: 8:28PM
Ocean Temp: 72°
UV Index: 7.3
Rip Current: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,517,834
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,107
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 24,961
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311

Saturday, July 9, 2022

It's My Favorite Weekend!

Mornin'!  It's 73° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 95% with a dew point of 72°.  Breezes are out of the E-NE at 5-10mph.   It's raining very lightly, almost just misty.  We're in the soup again as it's oppressively humid outside.  Thank goodness for air conditioning.  It's going to be a cloudy, gray day with periods of rain and temps in the mid-upper 70s.  Breezes are going to stay where they are now out of the E-NE at 10-15mph.  Chances of rain today: 100%.  Tonight... cloudy with periodic showers after midnight.  Temps will drop into the mid-upper 60s with NE winds at 5-10mph.  Chance of rain late tonight... 30%.  Tomorrow... cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing and partly sunny late in the day with a high near 75°.  Winds will be out of the E-NE at 10-20mph.  Lots going on this weekend.  I hit the BBQ-Blues Festival (my favorite Festival of the entire summer) last night and once again it did not disappoint. I'm not sure what I liked more, the music or the food!  But, it was all good! 
High Tide: 4:43PM
Low Tide: 10:08AM
Ocean Temp: 72°
Sunrise: 5:41AM
Sunset: 8:28PM
UV Index: 2 (very low)
Rip Currents: Low
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,514,115
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,099
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 24,920
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311

Friday, July 8, 2022

BBQ and Blues Weekend

Mornin'!  It's 71° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 87% with a dew point of 67°.  We're under cloud cover with breezes out of the NE at 4-6mph.  It'll be cloudy the first half of the day with peeks of sunshine expected much later.  Temps will be in the upper 70s with E-SE winds at 5-10mph.  Tonight... 25% chance of rain becoming cloudy later tonight with temps in the low-70s.  Winds will switch from the South at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... cloudy with periods of rain, temps in the low-mid 70s and E-NE winds at 10-20mph.  Chance of rain if 90%.  Sunday... partly to mostly sunny, temps in the upper 70s / low 80s and N-NE winds at 10-15mph.  Today's the start to the New Jersey State BBQ Championship and Anglesea Blues Festival in North Wildwood on Old New Jersey Avenue.  If you like BBQ or Blues or both... this one's for you!  It's definitely mine.  It's also the Cape May County Lifeguard Championships tonight on Rambler Ave Beach.  And, the Wildwood Crest Sand Sculpting Contest on Heather Ave Beach.  Lots happening this weekend.  Check out the Events Calendar under My Personal Favs.  
High Tide: 3:44PM
Low Tide: 9:08AM
Ocean Temp: 71°
Sunrise: 8:29AM
Sunset: 9:08PM
UV Index: 9 (high)
Rip Current: Moderate (A moderate risk of rip current implies that anyone planning to enter the surf should swim within sight of a life guard and never swim alone or at night.)
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,509,617
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,091
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 24,865
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311















Friday's Beach Tips:
Stuff to pack for the beach - shoes. Always wear footwear as the beach sand is extremely hot. Don't forget the kids... insist they wear something on their feet.  I pack bottled water, a spray bottle of water for you never know what, a hat, footwear, towel, sunblock, insect repellent (in case the winds shift from the west (land breeze) those "West winds" bring the biting green head flies), first aid kit (I include a tiny bottle of vinegar for jelly fish stings just in case), shade (umbrella, canopy of some type), a bungee cord to secure your umbrella for those windy days, something to read, sanitizing wipes or wet washcloth, a small trash bag to collect the trash you may accumulate. I always pack my crocheting project as I find crocheting on the beach very relaxing.  Some of my best baby blankets are full of briny yarn!  
*When setting up your spot (campsite) at the beach, give those around you a little courtesy and not set up too close to them.  It's always amazing to watch arriving folk completely unaware of their actions as they begin setting up their umbrella, blanket and chair only inches away from folks settled in.  Most beaches are huge (with the exception of North Wildwood) and there are blocks and blocks of available, open beach space yet it sometimes feels like new arrivals seek out people to sit nearby.  It happens more often than not and I have yet to figure out this strange phenomenon. There's plenty of beach to go round.
*Know your "tide" times.  You can always ask the lifeguard as they will know high tide.  If the tide is at its highest when you arrive, you can set up right at the water line and watch the beach grow bigger and bigger as the tide subsides taking 6 hours to slip into low tide.  It takes 6 hours for the tide to go from High to Low and then turn around and begin to go from Low to High (12 hour total).
*Tips for setting up your umbrella: be aware of the wind direction and wind speed.  On a windy day, take those extra steps to secure your umbrella.  Sand screws or sand grabbers are great for securing umbrellas and it's best to dig a hole first before twisting that screw in and of course packing the sand around it.  Also, a bungee cord attached to the umbrella and then to your cooler or beach cart works wonders for securing it for those real windy days. It's not uncommon to see umbrellas launched by the winds and more often than not into unknowing folks who are about to be impaled by your airborne, out of control umbrella.  It's inevitably happens while the entire family is in the ocean not realizing that their umbrella flew 2 blocks away.  Oh... when opening your umbrella... always point the umbrella toward the wind as this phenomenon never disappoints.  Most of the time, folks turn their back toward the wind and open the umbrella bringing about an inside out, uncontrolled umbrella giving you lots of air time. 
*Beach Courtesy: Begin by teaching your children courtesy at the beach. Teach them not to run or chase one another around someone else's blanket or chair.  Teach them not to walk or run on or close to someone's blanket. I've seen toddlers who take off running onto anyone's blanket in their path.  Wildwood's sand is light and very fine and is inevitably kicked up innocently by those passing by your chair or blanket.  Wildwood sand is fantastic but can be a nuisance if wind-blown all over everything and everyone.  It's always getting innocently kicked up.  Keeping aware of it really helps.
*When shaking out towels or blankets, be conscious of the wind direction and shake away from those in the line of "sand" fire.
*Advice for parents of toddlers on the beach (1-2 year olds)... bring a "pack-n-play" for them as I can assure you that your beach day will be much more enjoyable with those babes surrounded with toys and snacks in their little mesh, private encampment under an umbrella.  Your babe will enjoy the beach much more when she/he has had some controlled beach time right alongside you.  Not to mention they won't be as sandy as they could be all the while enjoying snacks, lunch, a bottle, a diaper change, not to mention a nice sea-breeze induced nap.  You'll be nearby relaxing and enjoying your beach time while they do the same.  I recently saw a young couple of a baby not old enough to walk, dig a round trench about 6" deep and place a piece of plastic (much like a part of a shower curtain) over the 2-3' wide hole and fill it with the ocean water so the babe could sit inside the makeshift puddle being entertained and cooled off as they played in their own little ocean pool.  It was ingenious.
*If you enjoy music on the beach... remember to pack your headphones.  Believe it or not, the majority of beach folk would much rather listen to the sounds of the surf or perhaps soft conversation; not the loud bass or hip hop profanity blasting next to them from your Bluetooth speakers.  Sorry... but it's something that happens a lot and it sucks.
*There is "no smoking" on the beach (at least where everyone's camped out).  That includes cigarettes, pipes, cigars and joints.  Wildwood Crest has a designated smoking area by the dunes.  There's also "no smoking" on the boardwalk.  New Jersey has legalized Marijuana and you can smoke it privately on your property but you can't do it in public.  There are no Pot dispensaries in Wildwood.
*For the pooches, there are two dog parks right on the beach.  At 24th and the Beach in North Wildwood and one in Wildwood between Glenwood and Maple on the Beach as well (it's exceptional).  Read the posted rules... no food being one of them.  Dogs must always be on a leash when not in the dog parks. *Feeding seagulls is a no-no.  Eat and snack smartly.  Waving hands when expressing oneself while holding lunch is a magnet for swooping gulls.  Drop just one potato chip and you'll have seagull havoc.  Eat conscientiously under your umbrella or chair canopy.  Seagulls are vultures and are smart and endlessly eyeing beach goers eating habits.  They're relentless in trying to find the opportune moment to swoop down and pluck lunch right out of your hand or mouth (seen it happen many times).  By the way, seagulls know "chip bags" and if you have an unsupervised beach bag with chip bags exposed, they'll think nothing of helping themselves to that bag and will share their newly acquired bag of chips with all their gull family and friends while you're in the ocean as 40 gulls enjoy a beach party on your blanket.
*Playing ball, Frisbee, horseshoes, corn hole, kite-flying, ladder toss, spike ball, paddle ball, volley ball, Kan-jam, beach darts, you-name-it etc. are not allowed to be set up and played where beach-goers are camped.  Go back by the dunes where the big beach is empty and no one is sitting to enjoy your more active beach games.
*Observe all posted signs and warnings... Beach closures for whatever reason... rip currents, storms, "surfing only" beaches, no alcohol or pot, no dogs or pets etc.  If in doubt, just ask the lifeguards.
*Never leave trash on the beach.  Better yet, pick up any that you may see whether it's yours or not.  There are many, many trash and recycle containers on the beach and surrounding areas.  You might as well use them rather than let all that trash make its way into the ocean for the fish to eat or get tangled in. Remember... whatever the fish eat, we eat too.  Plastic is an epidemic.  Speaking of plastic... New Jersey no longer has plastic bags available.  It's now all about bringing your reusable bags to save the planet from those fly-away, take-forever-to-disintegrate plastic bags.
*Lastly, be courteous. Courtesy is key.  Be kind and considerate to all those enjoying this beautiful moment right along with you. It's a lot of fun being at the beach.  Try not to bring those unmindful, mean spirited, (sometimes "vulgar") nasty, moods. We can all take the time and effort to make a really nice beach day even nicer.  It's easy. Happy Beaching!


Thursday, July 7, 2022

Looks Like A Wet Thursday

Mornin'!  It's 69° in Wildwood NJ.  It's raining and has been for over an hour.  When the rains began, they were heavy but at the moment are light and down to a drizzle.  There is a flood advisory until late morning as the rains will continue throughout the morning into the afternoon (90% chance).  The Full Moon is a week away so the moon shouldn't have any affect on the flooding.  We're currently in the Soup as the humidity is at 98% with a dew point of 70°.  Winds are out of the E-NE at 10-15mph.  Expect a rainy day with temps in the mid-upper 70s and E-NE winds at 10-20mph.  We could have rainy conditions until after dinner time.  Tonight... mostly cloudy with a slight chance of showers (20%), temps back to where they are now (upper 60s) and winds out of the NE at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... mostly cloudy early with a 30% chance of showers after 2pm.  It'll be cloudy with peeks of sun later in the day with temps in the upper 70s / low 80 and East winds at 5-10mph.  By tomorrow night... 40% chance of rain.  For the weekend... Saturday looks like it could be rainy with 60% chance of showers and a high of 80° and Sunday looks clear and sunny as well as breezy with temps in the same range as Saturday around 80°.  
High Tide: 2:51PM
Low Tides: 8:07AM and 9:00PM
Ocean Temp: 70°
Sunrise: 5:40AM
Sunset: 8:29PM
UV Index: Low (5.9)
Rip Current: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,505,692
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,083
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 24,841
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311

Wednesday, July 6, 2022

West Wind Wednesday

Mornin'!  It's 72° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 97% with a dew point of 73°.  Breezes are out of the West at 9-11mph.  We're under white-sky as it's hazy outside with those milky clouds happening yet Ms Sun's making it through partially.  We're going to have a mix of clouds and sun today with a 30% chance of thunderstorms this afternoon.  Temps will be around 85° with West winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight... thunderstorms early, overcast overnight with occasional rain showers (70% chance).  Tonight's temps... 72° with N-NW winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... more cloudiness with occasional rain showers (60% chance).  Temps around 75° with E-NE winds at 10-15mph.  As for this upcoming weekend... Saturday begins with rain turning into a partly cloudy / sunny day; Sunday... more partly sunny conditions.  If heading to the beach today, pack that Insect Repellent as the West winds are on tap and for those not in the know, West winds usually bring the "greenhead" flies to the beach especially in July and August.  Greenhead flies have a short life span and normally stay by the marshes or wooded areas.  They await and attack wildlife, livestock and people.  When the winds shift from the West, it pushes these little guys to the beaches and they are hungry for blood.  You'll know it if one bites. They leave a welt much like a mosquito does. Just pack the insect repellent. If you have none, you can use a rolled up magazine for swatting them as they may be hungry and try and bite you, but they're much slower than a conventional fly and 9 times out of 10, you can kill them with a quick swat if you see them land.  
High Tide: 2:03PM
Low Tide: 7:14AM and 7:48PM
Ocean Temp: 71°
Sunrise: 5:39AM
Sunset: 8:29PM
UV Index: 8.9
Rip Current: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,502,617
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,066
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 24,807
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311

Tuesday, July 5, 2022

A Little Of This And That This Tuesday

Mornin'!  It's 72° in Wildwood NJ.  Ms Sun's just began peeking through some morning clouds as breezes wift (waft) over the island out of the S-SW at 8-12mph.  Humidity's 81% with a dew point of 67°.  These hazy, wispy clouds will give way to a cloudy, windy day.  It'll all happen this afternoon as there's a 25% chance of showers and/or thunderstorms along with South winds at 20-30mph.  Temps will be just about tapping 80°. Don't forget to pack a bungee or sand-grabber if going to the beach.  Tonight... cloudy with scattered showers/thunderstorms possible (50% chance) and those leftover gusty winds (SW 20-30mph).  Tomorrow... partly sunny, high around 86° and W-NW winds at 10-15mph.   Thursday... partly to mostly cloudy with rain in the forecast. 
High Tide: 1:18PM
Low Tide: 6:44PM
Ocean Temp: 72°
Sunrise: 5:39AM
Sunset: 8:29PM
UV Index: 8.2
Rip Current: Low Risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,500,420
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,065
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 24,782
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311

Monday, July 4, 2022

July 4th, 2022

Mornin'!  Happy 4th of July!  It's Independence Day... a Federal Holiday commemorating the establishment of the United States of American and our Freedoms which was ratified by Congress on July 4th, 1776.  What a change that meaning has today huh?!  This poor Country of ours has its work cut out for itself.
We're going to have a beauty today on this 4th 2022.  It's already brilliant sunshine outside and 72° with low humidity (humidity's 63% and a dew point of 58°).  Breezes are light out of the N-NE at 5-8mph. A perfect start to the day! It'll be a 4th of July beauty today with clear, blue skies, temps around 80°, low humidity and E-SE winds at 5-10mph.  Tonight... clear, temps around 68° with S-SW winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... partly sunny, temps in the mid-upper 70s, and gusty winds developing in the afternoon.  A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible (25% chance).  Temps will be around 80° with S-SW winds at 20-30mph. Wednesday... mostly cloudy and very humid again with rain in the forecast by the afternoon.  Happy "Independence" Day!  Fireworks on the beach tonight at 10pm.
High Tide: 12:36PM
Low Tide: 5:55PM
Ocean Temp: 72°
Sunrise: 5:38AM
Sunset:8:30PM
UV Index: 9.6 (very high)
Rip Current: Low risk
Corona Virus Cases in NJ: 2,498,561
Corona Virus Deaths in NJ: 35,065
Corona Virus Cases in CMC: 24,756
Corona Virus Deaths in CMC: 311