C'est La Vie August!

Last Night's Sunset - North WW

Mornin'!  It's 67° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 77% with a dewpoint of 58°.  Winds are out of the N-NE at 15-25mph +gusting.  It's feeling like Autumn out there this morning!  The island's covered in thick cloud cover.  And, it'll be like this all day as August bids us adieu.  It's heading out with a blustery, cool day ahead.  Expect a cloudy day with a temps around 70° and NE winds at 15-25mph +gusting.  Tonight... clouds will begin to blow on out as it'll be a mostly clear and moonlit night with temps in the low-60s and N-NE winds at 10-20mph.  Tomorrow... sunny, temps in the low-70s and NE winds at 10-20mph.  Saturday... sunny, mid-70s and much calmer winds.  Sunday... sunny, upper 70s and calm winds.  Monday... sunny, temps in the low-80s with West winds on tap.  Until next year August... see ya on the other side.  You're checking out the way you checked in... much cooler temps (it was 67° the morning of August 1st) and higher than normal tides due to that Super Moon still looming.  
High Tides: 9:04AM and 9:24PM
Low Tide: 3:09PM
Ocean Temp: 73°
Sunrise: 6:27AM
Sunset: 7:39PM
Moonrise: 8:14PM
UV Index: 4
Rip Current: High Risk (dangerous surf today; if the beach isn't closed then swim only in front of a lifeguard).

Super Moon Humpday

Mornin'!  It's 75° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 95% with a 74° dewpoint.  Breezes are barely there out of the SW at 3-5mph.  It's muggy and cloudy as Ms Sun doesn't have a chance at the moment to shine with this thick cloud cover.  My first thoughts when I woke, was Idalia pummeling the gulf coast of Florida.  Then, when I stepped out onto my back porch, not a leaf on my tree or shrubs were moving as it's as still as can be this morning.  It's amazing that one part of the country is being destroyed by a Category 3 hurricane as I'm surrounded by stillness and silence.  It's very emotional for me.  Just this past May, I vacationed in Clearwater Florida for the very first time as I now know the area that's being paralyzed.  I can't express what I'm feeling but the last thing you want is Jim Cantore in your town. 

For Wildwood today, expect scattered showers today mostly before noon (25% chance).  We should see peeks of sunshine this afternoon with temps heading into the mid-80s and SW winds at 5-10mph.  Tonight... mostly cloudy, temps in the mid-upper 60s and N-NW winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow... mostly cloudy, temps in the low-70s and stiff winds out of the NE.  The holiday weekend beginning Friday into Monday is looking A-OK with plenty of sunshine and temps in the mid-70s and low-80s all four days.  It's the Full Moon (Super Moon) today and our tides are more extremely higher and lower than normal.  In fact, there are a couple Advisories posted...  "Coastal Flood Advisory" and "High Rip Current Risk" are in effect today until 1AM Thursday.  Remember your "high tide" times when traversing or parking around or on or off the island.  This affects the bayside communities as well and remember that the high tide is an hour later on the bay/marsh side of the island than the ocean side.  If heading to the beach, watch for beach closures and do not swim if there are no lifeguards as the ocean's rip currents are in the "high risk" zone today.  They're extremely dangerous.  Be safe out there.  I'm certainly counting my blessings that the likes of Idalia aren't hitting home for us.  
High Tides: 8:14AM and 8:34PM
Low Tide: 2:15PM
Ocean Temp: 73°
Sunrise: 6:26PM
Sunset: 7:52PM
Moonrise: 7:45PM
UV index: 6.8
Rip Current: High Risk

Keep An Eye On Those Tides Today

Mornin'!  It's 73° in Wildwood NJ.  It's raining.  Humidity's 99% with a dewpoint of 73°.  Winds are out of the E-NE at 10-15mph.  Looks like rain today at least until sometime early this afternoon (70% chance).  We may see peeks of sunshine by then.  Temps will be near 80° today with East winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight... partly to mostly cloudy, scattered showers and/or thunderstorms (30% chance), temps where they are now... low 70s and South winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... starting out cloudy with the strong possibility of scattered rain showers (70% chance), temps in the mid-80s with SW winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow night... mostly cloudy temps around 65° and North winds at 5-10mph.  Thursday... sunny, 80° and NE winds at 10-15mph.   Be aware of the tides for the next couple days... this Super Moon tomorrow will create some tide-havoc along the Coast with much higher and lower than normal tides for the next few days.  Be aware of those extreme low-lying areas surrounding our coastal region and don't drive through flood waters.  
High Tide: 7:20AM and 7:43PM
Low Tide: 1:18PM
Ocean Temp: 73°
Sunrise: 6:25AM
Sunset: 7:34PM
Moonrise: 7:11PM
UV Index: 7.4
Rip Current: High Risk: dangerous life-threatening rip currents today.  Only enter the surf if the beach patrol allow it.  Do Not go into the ocean alone or without the beach guarded today. 

Happy Monday!

This Morning's Live Webcam Shot - NWW

Mornin'!  It's 74° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 90% with a dewpoint of 70°.  It's mostly gray with Ms Sun trying to break through the thick cloud cover. Breezes are out of the East at 8-11mph.  It's looking like a gray, wet day with complete cloudy skies and by this afternoon... rain showers (40% chance).  We could continue to see peeks of sunshine this morning though.
Temps will be in the upper 70s with East winds at 5-15mph.  Tonight... 90% chance of rain with thunderstorms developing overnight.  Temps will drop down just a bit into the low-70s with East winds at 10-20mph.  Tomorrow... Showers likely kicking off the day with a mostly cloudy day and 60% chance of rain throughout the day.  Temps will be much like today only in the upper 70s with East winds becoming Southerly at 5-10mph.  Looks like the same for tomorrow night into Wednesday. There's 60% chance of rain the first half of Wednesday day with possible peeks of sun by the afternoon. I'm not a fan of giving a pretty creepy weather forecast to those who just checked in to enjoy their vacation here this last week of August and "not-official" last week of summer.  September 22nd is the official last day of Summer by the way.  But after we get through these first few days of this week... part of Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday look like perfection in the weather department.  All remains to be seen I guess.  Happy Monday!
High Tide: 6:20AM and 6:47PM
Low Tide: 12:20PM
Ocean Temp: 73°
Sunrise: 6:25AM
Sunset: 7:35PM
UV Index: 3.4
Rip Current: Moderate (only swim near a lifeguard)

Last Sunday In August

Mornin'!  It's 71° in Wildwood NJ.  Ms Sun's up and shining brightly through that morning haze.  Humidity's 90% with a dewpoint of 69°.  Winds are light out of the N-NE at 5-8mph.  It's going to be partly sunny today (some clouds in the mix) with temps in the low-80s and E-NE winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight.. partly to mostly cloudy, temps where they are now... low to mid-70s and E-NE winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... looking slightly "wet" with clouds in the morning, and showers by the afternoon (45% chance).  Temps will be in the mid-upper 70s and E-NE winds at 10-20mph.  Tomorrow night... 70% chance of precipitation.  Tuesday... 60% chance of precipitation.  Wednesday... a sunny day on tap. Speaking of Wednesday... it's the Full Moon.  In fact, it's the 2nd full moon this month and is known as the "Blue Moon" the biggest and brightest moon of the year!  The tides are already beginning to be higher and lower than normal.  Always know your "low-lying" areas on the island as we'll no doubt see some tidal flooding this week.  Don't drive through flood "salty" waters... not good at all for the undercarriage of your vehicle.  I changed yesterday's blog photo to honor our little Freddy as I forgot it was National Dog Day.  It's hard to believe our home has been this quiet for 2½ years now!  Friday night's canceled fireworks are tonight by the way! 

High Tide: 5:43PM
Low Tide: 11:18AM
Ocean Temp: 73°
Sunrise: 6:24AM
Sunset: 7:37PM
UV Index: 8
Rip Current: Low Risk

August's Last Weekend - National Dog Day!

Our Little Freddy (and Dad)

Mornin'!  It's 75° in Wildwood NJ.  No sunshine yet due to some heavy clouds and misty fog (right along the coast).  Humidity's 96% with a dewpoint of 73°.  Breezes are light out of the SW at 3-5mph.  The atmosphere is as heavy as you can get this morning.  When checking all the live webcams, you can see the sunrise trying to break through the grayness, but Ms Sun isn't having much luck yet.  Expect some scattered thick cloud cover with the possibility of rain showers and/or thunderstorms developing this morning (30% chance).  Otherwise, it'll be unsettled today with a partly sunny day and temps in the upper 80s with E-SE winds switching to E-NE at 5-10mph.  There is a 30% chance of an isolated shower passing through this afternoon (3-4pm).  Keep your eye on the sky.  Tonight... partly cloudy, temps around 70° with SE winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... partly cloudy skies in the morning giving way to partly sunny skies in the afternoon.  Temps will be in the upper 70s with NE winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow night... mostly cloudy, temps in the low-70s with 20% chance of a shower.  I've checked 4 different weather forecasts for this weekend's weather and not one agreed with the other.  So, your guess is as good as mine for the weather today and tomorrow.  Just keep your eye on the sky and maybe check the doppler now and then.  
High Tide: 4:35PM
Low Tide: 10:09AM
Ocean Temp: 73°
Sunrise: 6:23AM
Sunset: 7:38PM
UV Index: 7.8
Rip Current: Low risk

Happy Friday! The Last One Of August

Entering the island via North Wildwood

Mornin'!  It's 73° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 89% with a dewpoint of 71°.  It's sunny as Ms Sun rose about a half an hour ago.  She's been dealing with some heavy cloud cover here and there as it'll be a partly to mostly cloudy morning.  It's windy... Southerly winds at 15-20mph.  We're going to have a very windy, partly sunny / partly cloudy morning with scattered showers and/or thunderstorms (30% - probably before noon) and then a partly sunny day with those ramped up winds Southerly at 20-30mph and temps around 80°.  By late this afternoon, it's back to 40% chance of rain.  Tonight... scattered showers and storms (50% chance) with temps dropping into the low-70s and South winds at 15-25mph. Tomorrow... a warm one... partly sunny, temps around 90° with those pesky West winds at 5-10mph.  Sunday... mostly sunny, temps around 80° and NE winds at 5-10mph.  
High Tide: 3:27PM
Low Tide: 8:46AM
Ocean Temp: 73°
Sunrise: 6:22AM
Sunset: 7:39PM
UV Index: 6.4
Rip Current: Moderate (Only Swim Near A Lifeguard)

And, it's the last Friday of August...
Friday Beach Tip Day (for what it's worth) and this Beach Tip Posting is the last one for this Summer Season... 
*Beach Stuff - what to pack... bottled water, a spray bottle of water for you never know what, a hat, footwear, towel, sunblock, insect repellent (for the "West winds" that bring biting green head flies), first aid kit (I include a tiny bottle of vinegar for jelly fish stings), shade (umbrella, canopy of some type), a bungee cord to secure your umbrella for those windy days, something to read, sanitizing wipes, a small trash bag to collect any trash you accumulate.
*When setting up your spot (campsite) at the beach, give those around you a little courtesy and be kind as to not to 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 those folks already settled in and believe it or not, there's no one else yet at the beach except you. It often feels like new arrivals seek out others to sit close to.  It happens more often than not and I have yet to figure out this strange phenomenon. Most beaches are huge (with the exception of North Wildwood).  First Avenue beach has become more popular this year as that beach grows while the JFK Blvd beach shrinks.
*Know your "tide" times.  You can always ask the lifeguard as they will know.  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 slips into its 6 hour 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 packing the sand in.  Also, a bungee cord attaching the umbrella to your cooler or beach cart works wonders. 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 an airborne, out of control umbrella. And, while the entire family is in the ocean not realizing that their umbrella is 2 blocks away. I've seen it happen many times.  Oh... when opening your umbrella... always face the wind as this phenomenon never disappoints as most of the time, folks turn their back on the wind and open the umbrella. Thus... you now have an inside out, uncontrolled umbrella on your hands.
*Beach Etiquette.  When you walk directily next to someone who's laying on their blanket or sitting on their beach chair, your kicked up sand will almost certainly be tossed all over them; especially if it's windy.  Be conscientious of what you're doing. Teach your children courtesy at the beach. Explain that it's not okay to run or chase one another around someone else's blanket or chair.  Wildwood sand is light and extremely fine and is always kicked up and flung. I've seen toddlers who take off running and onto anyone's blanket in their flight path.  Here's a bit of 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.  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 shower curtain) over the 2-3' wide hole and fill it with the ocean water so the babe could be entertained and cooled off in their own little pool.
*Phone use... take it somewhere else.  Working from the beach for all of us to enjoy with you sucks.  Phone calls should be taken as far away from all the hordes of people as possible.  Go to the Dunes.  Trust me, no one wants to hear your conversation. 
*If shaking out towels or blankets, be conscious of the wind direction and always shake away from those in the line of your "sand" fire.
*There is "no smoking" of any type on the beach.  Wildwood Crest has a designated smoking area by the dunes.  There's "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.  You can walk your dog on the beach but only prior to lifeguards stationed at their posts.  May I suggest NOT bringing your dog's toys/balls to the dog park. Not a good idea at all as 8 other dogs will inevitably charge for your thrown toy.  Dogs must always be on a leash when not in the dog parks. 
*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; not the country twang, heavy metal, 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.
*Feeding seagulls is a no-no.  Eat and snack smartly.  Using flailing 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 Lays Chips with all their gulls family and friends while you're in the ocean without a care in the world.
*Playing ball, Frisbee, horseshoes, corn hole, kite-flying, ladder toss, spike ball, paddle ball, volley ball, Kan-jam, beach darts etc. are not allowed to be set up and played where beach-goers are camped.  Play back by the dunes where no one is sitting.
*Observe all posted signs and warnings... Beach closures due to weather, rip currents or storms, surfing only beaches, no alcohol or pot, no dogs or pets.  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 drift off and fly 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 at stores and shops.  It's now all about bringing your reusable bags to save the planet from those fly-away plastic ones.
*Lastly, be courteous.  Courtesy is key.  Be kind and considerate of all those enjoying this beautiful moment along with you. Keep the profanity at home.  It's a lot of fun being at the beach.  Let's enjoy together. Happy Beaching!

Mostly Cloudy - Rain Likely

Mornin'!  It's 73° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 82% with a dewpoint of 63°.  Wind are out of the E-SE at 6-8mph.  And, Ms Sun has risen but is behind cloud cover.  Along the horizon at the ocean, you can see a bright line of her sunrise colors coloring the sky, but overhead... gray clouds.  It'll be a mostly cloudy day with temps in the mid-upper 70s and S-SE winds at 5-15mph.  There's a 30% chance of rain.  Tonight... there's a 50% chance of rain, temps in the low-70s and South winds at 10-20mph.  Tomorrow... partly to mostly cloudy with 50% chance of rain.  Temps will be near 80° with gusty South winds at 10-15mph +gusting of up to 25mph.  Tomorrow night... 30% chance of rain, mostly cloudy, temps around 70° along with Southerly winds at 5-10mph.  Saturday... sunny, warm with temps near 90° and NW winds at 5-10mph.  Sunday... partly sunny, high near 80°.
High Tide: 2:27PM
Low Tide: 7:31AM
Ocean Temp: 73°
Sunrise: 6:21AM
Sunset: 7:41PM
UV Index: 2.4
Rip Current: Moderate: Only swim in front of a lifeguard

Hump Day Beauty

Mornin'!  It's 63° in Wildwood NJ.  Ms Sun's up.  It's cool and comfortable outside this morning.  It actually made me gasp a little when I stepped onto the porch.  Humidity's 84% with a dewpoint of 59°.  Breezes are light out of the N-NE at 4-6mph.  It'll be a lovely end-of-summer day with plenty of sunshine, temps in the mid-upper 70s and E-NE winds at 5-10mph.  Tonight... partly cloudy skies giving way to cloudy skies late, temps in the upper 60s and SE winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... overcast day with 20% chance of a stray shower possible, temps in the mid-upper 70s and S-SE winds at 10-20mph.  Tomorrow night... 50% chance of rain.  Friday... 70% chance of rain.  As for the weekend, both Saturday and Sunday look sunny and warm (temps around 80°).  We could some rain on the overnight Saturday into Sunday early morning.  Enjoy today... picture perfect.
High Tide: 1:35PM
Low Tide: 7:45PM
Ocean Temp: 73°
Sunrise: 6:20AM
Sunset: 7:42PM
UV Index: 7.7
Rip Current: Moderate (swim only in front of a lifeguard)

Not As Warm As Yesterday

Cape May Fishing Fleet

Mornin'!  It's 75° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's down again at 77% with a dewpoint of 67°.  It's cloudy again too.  Breezy have just begun ramping up out of the North at 5-10mph as there was barely a breeze when I first checked.   It'll be a cloudy start (much like yesterday) becoming sunny by mid-day.  Temps will be much cooler with temps near 80° (we almost hit 90° yesterday) and much stiffer winds than yesterday out of the North at 10-20mph. Pack a bungee if heading to the beach.  Tonight... mostly clear, temps in the low-60s and NE winds at 5-15mph.  Tomorrow... plentiful sunshine, temps in the mid-upper 70s and E-NE winds at 5-10mph.  
High Tide: 12:50PM
Low Tide: 6:48PM
Ocean Temp: 74°
Sunrise: 6:19AM
Sunset: 7:44PM
UV Index: 7.5
Rip Current: Low risk

Warm Monday

This Morning's Web Cam Shot - N.Wildwood

Mornin'!  It's 73° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's back up... 94% with a dewpoint of 72°.  Winds are out of the W-SW at 4-6mph.  Ms Sun's up but dealing with some of that cloud cover along the horizon again.  It's making a very colorful and scenic sky that's for sure.  We're going to have some partial cloud cover this morning then becoming partly sunny this afternoon.  Temps are going up... near 90° with W-SW winds at 5-10mph.  Tonight... partly clear giving way to cloudy skies late, temps dropping significantly into the upper 60s and North winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow... a repeat of today (starting out more cloudy than sunny but more sunny than cloudy by the afternoon), temps will be much lower in the mid-upper 70s and brisk NE winds at 15-25mph. 

High Tide: 12:12PM
Low Tide: 6:05PM
Ocean Temp: 74°
Sunrise: 6:18AM
Sunset: 7:45PM
UV Index: 72°
Rip Current: Low risk

Lovely Sunday

Mornin'!  It's 68° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 76% with a dewpoint of 61°.  Winds are out of the SW at 2-5mph.  Ms Sun's only minutes away from rising and is already painting those leftover horizon clouds lovely shades of coral and pinks.  It's mostly clear skies this morning.  It'll be another beauty today with plentiful sunshine, temps around 80° and S-SW winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight... clear, starlit skies, temps in the low 70s and S-SW winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow... partly cloudy skies in the morning, giving way to a partly sunny Monday with temps in the mid-80s and W-SW winds at 5-10mph.  
High Tide: 11:36AM
Low Tide: 5:28PM
Ocean Temp: 75°
Sunrise: 6:17AM
Sunset: 7:47PM
UV Index: 8.5
Rip Current: Low Risk

Sunny Weekend Up Ahead

Mornin'!  It's 67° (no typo) in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 56% with a dewpoint of 54°.  Those numbers are not a typo either.  I can't remember when we had a temperature along with a humidity percent that low.  It's sunny with NW winds at 3-8mph.  It's an Autumn morning if I ever felt one.  The air temp and the low humidity percent is what's making it feel like a September morning that's for sure.  Ms Sun's up and will be with us all throughout the day and evening as temps go into the low-mid 80s.  It'll be a W-NW wind day at 10-15mph + gusting (pack the insect repellent).  Tonight... clear, temps in the upper 60s and SW winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... sunny, mid-80s and SW winds at 5-10mph.  Monday... sunny, temps in the mid-80s and SW winds at 5-10mph.  
High Tide: 11:01AM
Low Tide: 4:52PM
Ocean Temp: 75°
Sunrise: 6:17AM
Sunset: 7:49PM
UV Index: 8.3
Rip Current: Low Risk

Happy Friday!

Mornin'!  It's 75° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 94% with a dewpoint of 75°.  Ms Sun just began peeking through all the morning cloud cover.  Breezes are out there out of the West at 9-11mph.  Even with only 75°, the warmth and humidity hits you big time when stepping outside.  It'll be a partly sunny day with temps in the low-mid 80s with W-NW winds at 10-15mph (maybe even 20mph).  Tonight... clear skies, temps in the upper 60s and NW winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow... sunny, temps tapping 80° and W-NW winds at 10-20mph.  Sunday... sunny, temps tapping 80° with W-SW winds at 10-15mph.  
High Tide: 10:25AM
Low Tide: 4:15PM
Ocean Temp: 75°
Sunrise: 6:16AM
Sunset: 7:50PM
UV Index: 7.3
Rip Current: Moderate Risk (only swim in front of lifeguard)
And, it's Friday for what it's worth...

Friday Beach Tips...
*Beach Stuff - what to pack... bottled water, a spray bottle of water for you never know what, a hat, footwear, towel, sunblock, insect repellent (for the "West winds" that bring biting green head flies), first aid kit (I include a tiny bottle of vinegar for jelly fish stings), shade (umbrella, canopy of some type), a bungee cord to secure your umbrella for those windy days, something to read, sanitizing wipes, a small trash bag to collect any trash you accumulate.
*When setting up your spot (campsite) at the beach, give those around you a little courtesy and be kind as to not to 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 those folks already settled in and believe it or not, there's no one else yet at the beach except you. It often feels like new arrivals seek out others to sit close to.  It happens more often than not and I have yet to figure out this strange phenomenon. Most beaches are huge (with the exception of North Wildwood).  First Avenue beach has become more popular this year as that beach grows while the JFK Blvd beach shrinks.
*Know your "tide" times.  You can always ask the lifeguard as they will know.  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 slips into its 6 hour 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 packing the sand in.  Also, a bungee cord attaching the umbrella to your cooler or beach cart works wonders. 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 an airborne, out of control umbrella. And, while the entire family is in the ocean not realizing that their umbrella is 2 blocks away. I've seen it happen many times.  Oh... when opening your umbrella... always face the wind as this phenomenon never disappoints as most of the time, folks turn their back on the wind and open the umbrella. Thus... you now have an inside out, uncontrolled umbrella on your hands.
*Beach Etiquette.  When you walk directily next to someone who's laying on their blanket or sitting on their beach chair, your kicked up sand will almost certainly be tossed all over them; especially if it's windy.  Be conscientious of what you're doing. Teach your children courtesy at the beach. Explain that it's not okay to run or chase one another around someone else's blanket or chair.  Wildwood sand is light and extremely fine and is always kicked up and flung. I've seen toddlers who take off running and onto anyone's blanket in their flight path.  Here's a bit of 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.  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 shower curtain) over the 2-3' wide hole and fill it with the ocean water so the babe could be entertained and cooled off in their own little pool.
*Phone use... take it somewhere else.  Working from the beach for all of us to enjoy with you sucks.  Phone calls should be taken as far away from all the hordes of people as possible.  Go to the Dunes.  Trust me, no one wants to hear your conversation. 
*If shaking out towels or blankets, be conscious of the wind direction and always shake away from those in the line of your "sand" fire.
*There is "no smoking" of any type on the beach.  Wildwood Crest has a designated smoking area by the dunes.  There's "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.  You can walk your dog on the beach but only prior to lifeguards stationed at their posts.  May I suggest NOT bringing your dog's toys/balls to the dog park. Not a good idea at all as 8 other dogs will inevitably charge for your thrown toy.  Dogs must always be on a leash when not in the dog parks. 
*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; not the country twang, heavy metal, 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.
*Feeding seagulls is a no-no.  Eat and snack smartly.  Using flailing 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 Lays Chips with all their gulls family and friends while you're in the ocean without a care in the world.
*Playing ball, Frisbee, horseshoes, corn hole, kite-flying, ladder toss, spike ball, paddle ball, volley ball, Kan-jam, beach darts etc. are not allowed to be set up and played where beach-goers are camped.  Play back by the dunes where no one is sitting.
*Observe all posted signs and warnings... Beach closures due to weather, rip currents or storms, surfing only beaches, no alcohol or pot, no dogs or pets.  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 drift off and fly 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 at stores and shops.  It's now all about bringing your reusable bags to save the planet from those fly-away plastic ones.
*Lastly, be courteous.  Courtesy is key.  Be kind and considerate of all those enjoying this beautiful moment along with you. Keep the profanity at home.  It's a lot of fun being at the beach.  Let's enjoy together. Happy Beaching!

Another "Soupy" day

Mornin'!  It's 77° in Wildwood NJ.  Another "soupy" morning as the island's in some dense fog.  Humidity's 93% with a dewpoint of 74°.  Breezes are out of the SE at 2-3mph.  It'll be foggy and then become partly cloudy, then mostly cloudy by this afternoon with a stray shower or thunderstorm possible (25% chance).  Temps will just about tap 80° with SE winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight... still cloudy with a 40% chance of scattered thunderstorms along with the possibility of strong gusty winds.  Temps will be in the low-mid 70s with Southerly winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow... possibly clouds to kick off the day becoming sunny by the afternoon.  Temps will be in the low-mid 80s with West winds at 10-20mph.  Tomorrow night... clear, temps in the low-70s and NW breezes.  As for this weekend... Saturday will be mainly sunny with temps tapping 80° and W-NW winds at 10-20mph.  And, Sunday... sunny, temps in the low-80s and W-SW winds at 5-10mph.  
High Tide: 9:48AM
Low Tide: 3:37PM
Ocean Temp: 74°
Sunrise: 6:20AM
Sunset: 7:57PM
UV Index: 5.4
Rip Current: Low risk

New Moon - Hump Day

Mornin'!  It's 74° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 94% with a dewpoint of 73°.  Ms Sun's up and working her way through some fog.  Winds are barely there out of the N-NW at 2-3mph.  Let's talk about this morning's fog... it's kind of crazy as there's fog right along the coast and beach and off the marsh covering any views of the beach, mainland or bridge.  But, right in the heart of Wildwood... no fog; just sunshine.  We'll be drying out today as last night's storms barreled through leaving streets flooded from the tropical wind sheer and torrents of heavy downpours drenching everything in its path.  You can see water debris lines on sidewalks and streets.  The birds seem happy though as they're loud and boisterous this morning.  And, that includes all the island birds not just the yappy seagulls.  They must be relieved that they made it through last night's stormy intensity.  The boardwalk lost power last night as Morey's pier lost power for awhile when those on the Sea Serpent and Ferris Wheel had to wait for help.  Everything turned out okay thankfully.
Today's weather will be mostly sunny, high near 90° (again as we hit 90° yesterday) with West winds at 5-10mph.  Pack the insect repellent.  Tonight... partly clear, temps in the low-70s and South winds at 4-8mph.  Tomorrow... cloudy with 30% chance of rain, temps in the mid-80s and SE winds at 5-15mph.  Friday... mostly sunny, temps in the mid-upper 80s and West winds at 5-10mph.  Saturday... sunny, temps in the low-mid 80s and West winds.  Sunday... sunny, temps in the low-mid 80s and SW winds.
It's the New Moon today meaning it's invisible up in the sky but more importantly it pulls on our tides much like a Full Moon creating higher and lower than normal tides.  And, don't forget that insect repellent today with those West (land breezes) winds that bring the biting flies.  I did a little research and I read that Listerine, Windex, Fabric Softener sheets, Vanilla, Avon's Skin So Soft are some of the locals suggestions that repel those annoying biters. 
High Tide: 9:11AM
Low Tide: 2:56PM
Ocean Temp: 74°
Sunrise: 6:19AM
Sunset: 7:59PM
UV Index: 8.7
Rip Current: Low Risk

Soup's On

Mornin'!  It's 75° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 95% with a dewpoint of 75° and it feels like a wall of damp, heavy air when stepping outside this morning.  Pretty much like it has been all summer long.  We're in the soup.  It rained last night right into the overnight.  There's no watering needed this morning.  It's mostly clear with some leftover cloud cover along with light winds out of the SW at 5-10mph. Ms Sun will be up over the horizon in about a half an hour.  My guess it's going to be a beautiful sunrise. 
Expect a mix of sun and clouds today (mostly the first half of today) with 50% chance of scattered rain showers or thunderstorms developing this afternoon; probably after 3pm.  There's always that potential for severe thunderstorms with this heat and humidity.  Keep your eye on the sky and always be cognizant of the weather around you.  If you hear thunder, pack it up and play it safe.  Temps will be in the mid-upper 80s with SW winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight... 70% chance of rain and/or thunderstorms.  Some storms may contain gusty winds.  After midnight, the skies should once again clear out from all the storm clouds.  Tonight's temps... low-mid 70s with W-SW winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... mix of sun and clouds, a slight chance of a passing shower (15% chance), temps in the low-mid 80s and W-NW winds at 5-10mph. Tomorrow night... partly cloudy, temps in the low-70s and winds light and variable.  The New Moon is tomorrow and it has the same effect on the tides as a Full Moon.  Note the tides are much higher and lower than normal.  And, if we do get a good storm passing through later, tidal street flooding is always a possibility.  Know the low-lying areas on the island... be aware of where you park your vehicle and don't drive through flood waters.  
High Tide: 8:31AM and 8:39PM
Low Tide: 2:14PM
Ocean Temp: 72°
Sunrise: 6:18AM
Sunset: 8:08PM
UV Index: 79°
Rip Current: Low Risk 

Mostly Sunny Monday

Today's Webcam Shot - NW 5th Ave Boat Ramp 

Mornin'!  It's 77° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 88% with a dewpoint of 72°.  Ms Sun's up with some morning clouds moving over to allow the morning sunshine.  Breezes are barely there out of the E-NE at 2-4mph.  It'll be mostly to partly sunny today (some clouds in the the mix) with temps in the low-mid 80s and SE winds at 5-10mph.  There's a slight chance of a passing rain shower (15% chance).  Keep your eye on the sky.  Tonight... unsettled weather approaching with 60% chance of scattered rain showers and/or thunderstorms.  Temps will drop down to the low-mid 70s with South winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow... partly cloudy with rain due in especially later in the day (80% chance).  Some storms could produce heavy rain and gusty winds.  It'll be warm and muggy with temps near 90° with SW winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow night... rain and/or storms likely, temps in the upper 60s with SW winds.  Chance of rain tomorrow night... 80%. 
High Tides: 7:49AM and 8:00PM
Low Tide: 1:29PM
Ocean Temp: 71°
Sunrise: 6:17AM
Sunset: 8:09PM
UV Index: 8.9
Rip Current: Low risk

Mostly Sunny Sunday

Maureen "Moe" Thall 

Mornin'! It's 77° in Wildwood NJ.  Ms Sun's up and shining down on the island this lovely morn.  Humidity's 85% with a dewpoint of 75° making it feel like 80°.  Winds are light out of the West at 10-12mph.  It'll be sunny to partly sunny today as partial cloud cover intends to build in the skies today.  Temps will be in the upper 80s with West winds at 10-15mph (pack the insect repellent).  Tonight... partly clear with some clouds in the mix, temps around 71° and N-NW breezes at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... intervals and sun and clouds kicking off the day and week with more clouds filtering over us later in the day.  Temps will tap 80° with East winds at 5-10mph.  Tuesday... looking like a rainy day and evening with 40-50% chance of on and off showers and temps barely tapping 80°.  It's the North Wildwood Flea Market today and it's a biggie... from 2nd to 16th at JFK Blvd.  It's one that I volunteered for many years back in the day when working for the City of North Wildwood.  It'll be especially sad this year as my partner in crime "Moe" passed away and will be sorely missed at this huge event that she managed for 20+ years.  This post is for you my friend as you're not only watching the Flea Market take place from where you are but no doubt still reading my daily weather posts.  Miss you my friend.  
High Tide: 7:01AM and 7:18PM
Low Tide: 12:43PM
Ocean Temp: 71°
Sunrise: 6:16AM
Sunset: 8:10PM
UV Index: 8:6
Rip Current: Low risk

Looking Nice Today

This Morning's Webcam Shot - North Wildwood

Mornin'!  It's 72° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 95% with a dewpoint of 71°.  Ms Sun's up and trying her best to come through those lovely sunrise clouds.  It's making for a beautiful sky this morning.  Winds are light out of the S-SW at 4-7mph.  It'll be mainly sunny today with temps around 80° and Southerly winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight... mainly clear with some clouds in the mix but the Perseids Meteors are tonight and tomorrow morning and probably worth trying to check out as this meteor shower is now at its peek.  Temps will be in the low-mid 70s with S-SW winds at 10-20mph.  Tomorrow... partly sunny, temps in the mid-upper 80s and West winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow night... 20% chance of rain showers before midnight, temps in the low-70s with winds out of the SW.  
High Tide: 6:29PM
Low Tide: 11:55AM
Ocean Temp: 72°
Sunrise: 6:15AM
Sunset: 8:12PM
UV Index: 8.3
Rip Current: Low risk

West Wind Friday

The Boardwalk Breakfast Club Boys

Mornin'!  It's 74° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 84% with a dewpoint of 70°.  Ms Sun's up and shining brightly.  Breezes are out of the West at 9-11mph.  It's feeling damp and humid with the off and on light rain we received yesterday and last night.  No need to roll that hose out this morning as everything's watered nicely.  It'll be  mostly sunny today with temps in the low-mid 80s and West winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight... clear to partly cloudy, temps in the low-70s and S-SW winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... except for a few afternoon clouds, mainly sunny, temps in the low-mid 80s and stiff Southerly winds at 10-20mph.  Sunday... mostly sunny, temps in the low-mid 80s and SW winds.  There's a slight chance of a passing shower (15% chance) on Sunday.  It's a "west wind" day so remember that insect repellent for the greenhead flies coming from the marshes.
High Tide: 5:33PM
Low Tide:11:03AM
Ocean Temp: 71°
Sunrise: 6:14AM
Sunset: 8:13PM
UV Index: 8.6
Rip Current: Low risk

And, you know what today is!  It's Friday...

Friday Beach Tips...
*Beach Stuff - what to pack... bottled water, a spray bottle of water for you never know what, a hat, footwear, towel, sunblock, insect repellent (for the "West winds" that bring biting green head flies), first aid kit (I include a tiny bottle of vinegar for jelly fish stings), shade (umbrella, canopy of some type), a bungee cord to secure your umbrella for those windy days, something to read, sanitizing wipes, a small trash bag to collect any trash you accumulate.
*When setting up your spot (campsite) at the beach, give those around you a little courtesy and be kind as to not to 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 those folks already settled in and believe it or not, there's no one else yet at the beach except you. It often feels like new arrivals seek out others to sit close to.  It happens more often than not and I have yet to figure out this strange phenomenon. Most beaches are huge (with the exception of North Wildwood).  First Avenue beach has become more popular this year as that beach grows while the JFK Blvd beach shrinks.
*Know your "tide" times.  You can always ask the lifeguard as they will know.  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 slips into its 6 hour 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 packing the sand in.  Also, a bungee cord attaching the umbrella to your cooler or beach cart works wonders. 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 an airborne, out of control umbrella. And, while the entire family is in the ocean not realizing that their umbrella is 2 blocks away. I've seen it happen many times.  Oh... when opening your umbrella... always face the wind as this phenomenon never disappoints as most of the time, folks turn their back on the wind and open the umbrella. Thus... you now have an inside out, uncontrolled umbrella on your hands.
*Beach Etiquette.  When you walk directily next to someone who's laying on their blanket or sitting on their beach chair, your kicked up sand will almost certainly be tossed all over them; especially if it's windy.  Be conscientious of what you're doing. Teach your children courtesy at the beach. Explain that it's not okay to run or chase one another around someone else's blanket or chair.  Wildwood sand is light and extremely fine and is always kicked up and flung. I've seen toddlers who take off running and onto anyone's blanket in their flight path.  Here's a bit of 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.  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 shower curtain) over the 2-3' wide hole and fill it with the ocean water so the babe could be entertained and cooled off in their own little pool.
*Phone use... take it somewhere else.  Working from the beach for all of us to enjoy with you sucks.  Phone calls should be taken as far away from all the hordes of people as possible.  Go to the Dunes.  Trust me, no one wants to hear your conversation. 
*If shaking out towels or blankets, be conscious of the wind direction and always shake away from those in the line of your "sand" fire.
*There is "no smoking" of any type on the beach.  Wildwood Crest has a designated smoking area by the dunes.  There's "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.  You can walk your dog on the beach but only prior to lifeguards stationed at their posts.  May I suggest NOT bringing your dog's toys/balls to the dog park. Not a good idea at all as 8 other dogs will inevitably charge for your thrown toy.  Dogs must always be on a leash when not in the dog parks. 
*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; not the country twang, heavy metal, 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.
*Feeding seagulls is a no-no.  Eat and snack smartly.  Using flailing 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 Lays Chips with all their gulls family and friends while you're in the ocean without a care in the world.
*Playing ball, Frisbee, horseshoes, corn hole, kite-flying, ladder toss, spike ball, paddle ball, volley ball, Kan-jam, beach darts etc. are not allowed to be set up and played where beach-goers are camped.  Play back by the dunes where no one is sitting.
*Observe all posted signs and warnings... Beach closures due to weather, rip currents or storms, surfing only beaches, no alcohol or pot, no dogs or pets.  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 drift off and fly 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 at stores and shops.  It's now all about bringing your reusable bags to save the planet from those fly-away plastic ones.
*Lastly, be courteous.  Courtesy is key.  Be kind and considerate of all those enjoying this beautiful moment along with you. Keep the profanity at home.  It's a lot of fun being at the beach.  Let's enjoy together. Happy Beaching!

Looks Like A Wet One On Tap

Mornin'!  It's 72° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 93% with a dewpoint of 71°.  Winds are out of the S-SW at 8-12mph.  Ms Sun has broke through the morning clouds and is shining.  We'll see morning sunshine but by this afternoon it appears that rain clouds will begin to thicken as rain is due by early afternoon.  Expect scattered rain and or thunderstorms possibly late this morning becoming more widespread by this afternoon (80% chance).  Some may contain strong gusty winds.  Temps will be around 79° with S-SW winds at 10-20mph +gusting.  Tonight... scattered rain showers and/or thunderstorms (50% chance) with skies clearing out after midnight.  Temps will drop down to 70° with W-NW winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow... sunny, afternoon clouds, temps in the low-80s and West winds at 10-15mph.  As for this weekend... Saturday will be mainly sunny with temps in the low-80s and gentle sea breezes, whereas Sunday will be partly to mostly cloudy, temps in the low-80s and W-SW breezes.  Keep your eye on the sky today.
High Tide: 4:35PM
Low Tide: 10:07AM
Ocean Temp: 71°
Sunrise: 6:13AM
Sunset: 8:15PM
UV Index: 1.9
Rip Current: Moderate (only swim on guarded beaches)

Hump Day

The "Great White"

Mornin'!  It's 75° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's low this morning at 70% with a dewpoint of 64°.  The sun-is-a-shining.  And, winds are out of the W-NW at 10-15mph.  It'll be sunny today with a high of 82° and those pesky, warmish "west" winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight... a few passing clouds, temps in the low-70s and SW winds at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... kicking off the day with partly cloudy skies and thunderstorms likely by afternoon (80% chance).  Temps will be around 80° with S-SW winds at 10-20mph.  As for this coming weekend... mostly sunny (partial cloud cover in the mix for both days) and warm (low-mid 80s) with breezes that seem to be just right.  Today... not so much as those West Winds bring the biting green head flies.  I can never stress that enough as what you think is a beautiful beach day can no doubt be ruined by the flies that ride the winds in from the marshlands to the sea. They'll inevitably have a meal on your ankles, back of your thighs, arms etc. as they settle in for their beach day.  Pack the insect repellent.  
High Tide: 3:39PM
Low Tide: 9:08AM
Ocean Temp: 72°
Sunrise: 6:12AM
Sunset: 8:16PM
UV Index: 8
Rip Current: Low Risk

You've Been Warned - West Winds Wafting Today

Sunken Ship - Cape May - Sunset Beach

Mornin'!  It's 71° in Wildwood NJ.  Ms Sun's up and shining over the humid island.  Humidity's 96% with a dewpoint of 71°.  Winds are out of the W-SW at 8-11mph.  It'll be a "Stiff West Wind" day with plenty of sunshine, temps in the low-80s and blustery West winds at 15-25mph.  Prepare accordingly if going to the beach and pack a bungee cord to anchor those umbrellas. And, the insect repellent to ward off the greenhead "biting" West Wind flies.  Tonight... clear, temps near 70° and W-NW winds at 10-20mph.  Tomorrow... sunny, temps in the low-80s and West winds at 10-15mph.  
High Tide: 2:45PM
Low Tides: 8:08AM and 9:09PM
Ocean Temp: 72°
Sunrise: 6:11AM
Sunset: 8:17PM
UV Index: 8
Rip Current: Low risk

National Lighthouse Day

Hereford Inlet Lighthouse - N.Wildwood

Mornin'!  It's 71° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 94% with a dewpoint of 72°.  Winds are stiff out of the South at 10-20mph.  We're in the midst of some mist as it's gray outside.  You can feel moisture hit your skin the moment you go out.  A rain system is currently heading our way out of the Southwest and by 8-9AM we should be seeing a nice watering (80% chance).  After morning showers (and/or thunderstorms) it'll become sunny, then partly cloudy again by this afternoon.  Temps will be around 80° with very stiff winds out of the South kicking up later at 20-30mph.  Chance of rain this morning and again this evening is 80%.  Tonight... rain early (possible thunderstorms too), then becoming cloudy after midnight.  There is a potential for severe thunderstorms tonight.  Temps will drop to the low-70s with S-SW winds at 15-25mph.  Chance of rain tonight is 70%.  Tomorrow... sunny, temps around 80° and those annoying West winds (very stiff) at 15-25mph.  Get some of the insect repellent in for the biting flies!   

High Tide: 1:53PM
Low Tide: 7:14AM and 8:01PM
Ocean Temp: 70°
Sunrise: 6:10AM
Sunset: 8:20PM
UV index: 8.3
Rip Current: Moderate risk (swim only in front of a lifeguard)

Sunny Sunday

Mornin'!  It's 71° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 89% with a dewpoint of 69°.  Ms Sun's up and shining over the island.  Winds are light out of the N-NE at 2-4mph.  It'll be a lovely summer day down the Shore.  Expect sunshine, temps in the low-80s and SE winds at 5-10mph.  Tonight... clouds begin to filter in, with 40-50% chance of rain showers after midnight.  Temps will drop to where they are now (low-70s) with Southerly winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow... 40% chance of scattered rain in the morning then becoming partly cloudy with peeks of sun, temps in the low-80s and stiff winds out of the South.
High Tide: 1:00PM
Low Tide: 7:00PM
Ocean Temp: 71°
Sunrise: 6:09AM
Sunset: 8:20PM
UV Index: 9.1
Rip Current: Low risk

Happy Friday!

Mornin'! Happy 10th Birthday to my grandson!   This one's dedicated to you my sweet boy!  I love you.  It's 71° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 84% with a dewpoint of 66°.  Winds are out of the S-SW at 2-5mph.  It's cloudy.  In fact, it looks like no sunshine today.  It'll be cloudy this morning with 60% chance of rain by this afternoon.  Temps will be in the mid-70s with South winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight... partly to mostly cloudy with 40% chance of rain.  Temps will be in the upper 60s with SW winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow... partly sunny, temps around 85° and SE winds at 5-10mph.  Sunday... mostly sunny, temps in the mid-80s and NE winds at 5-10mph.  Since we're celebrating with my grandson this weekend, I may be taking a day or two reprieve on the weather blog.  For the most part, the weekend weather is looking A-OK in Wildwood.  We've just got to get through today.  Happy Friday!

High Tide: 11:10AM
Low Tide: 5:10PM
Ocean Temp: 71°
Sunrise: 6:07am
Sunset: 8:22pm

UV Index: 1.6
Rip Current: Moderate (life threatening rip currents are possible in the surf today).  If you don't see a lifeguard, don't go in the ocean.
And, for what it's worth... here are those beach tips which basically is a waste of my time posting as the ignoramuses are packed on the beach this summer.  I'm not sure where they're all coming from but the beach couldn't get any more ignorant and uglier.  If any of them have read my beach tips, they're not referring to them at all.  Someday, I'll post just what is really happening on a typical beach day.

Friday Beach Tips...
*Beach Stuff - what to pack... bottled water, a spray bottle of water for you never know what, a hat, footwear, towel, sunblock, insect repellent (for the "West winds" that bring biting green head flies), first aid kit (I include a tiny bottle of vinegar for jelly fish stings), shade (umbrella, canopy of some type), a bungee cord to secure your umbrella for those windy days, something to read, sanitizing wipes, a small trash bag to collect any trash you accumulate.
*When setting up your spot (campsite) at the beach, give those around you a little courtesy and be kind as to not to 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 those folks already settled in and believe it or not, there's no one else yet at the beach except you. It often feels like new arrivals seek out others to sit close to.  It happens more often than not and I have yet to figure out this strange phenomenon. Most beaches are huge (with the exception of North Wildwood).  First Avenue beach has become more popular this year as that beach grows while the JFK Blvd beach shrinks.
*Know your "tide" times.  You can always ask the lifeguard as they will know.  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 slips into its 6 hour 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 packing the sand in.  Also, a bungee cord attaching the umbrella to your cooler or beach cart works wonders. 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 an airborne, out of control umbrella. And, while the entire family is in the ocean not realizing that their umbrella is 2 blocks away. I've seen it happen many times.  Oh... when opening your umbrella... always face the wind as this phenomenon never disappoints as most of the time, folks turn their back on the wind and open the umbrella. Thus... you now have an inside out, uncontrolled umbrella on your hands.
*Beach Etiquette.  When you walk directily next to someone who's laying on their blanket or sitting on their beach chair, your kicked up sand will almost certainly be tossed all over them; especially if it's windy.  Be conscientious of what you're doing. Teach your children courtesy at the beach. Explain that it's not okay to run or chase one another around someone else's blanket or chair.  Wildwood sand is light and extremely fine and is always kicked up and flung. I've seen toddlers who take off running and onto anyone's blanket in their flight path.  Here's a bit of 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.  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 shower curtain) over the 2-3' wide hole and fill it with the ocean water so the babe could be entertained and cooled off in their own little pool.
*Phone use... take it somewhere else.  Working from the beach for all of us to enjoy with you sucks.  Phone calls should be taken as far away from all the hordes of people as possible.  Go to the Dunes.  Trust me, no one wants to hear your conversation. 
*If shaking out towels or blankets, be conscious of the wind direction and always shake away from those in the line of your "sand" fire.
*There is "no smoking" of any type on the beach.  Wildwood Crest has a designated smoking area by the dunes.  There's "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.  You can walk your dog on the beach but only prior to lifeguards stationed at their posts.  May I suggest NOT bringing your dog's toys/balls to the dog park. Not a good idea at all as 8 other dogs will inevitably charge for your thrown toy.  Dogs must always be on a leash when not in the dog parks. 
*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; not the country twang, heavy metal, 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.
*Feeding seagulls is a no-no.  Eat and snack smartly.  Using flailing 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 Lays Chips with all their gulls family and friends while you're in the ocean without a care in the world.
*Playing ball, Frisbee, horseshoes, corn hole, kite-flying, ladder toss, spike ball, paddle ball, volley ball, Kan-jam, beach darts etc. are not allowed to be set up and played where beach-goers are camped.  Play back by the dunes where no one is sitting.
*Observe all posted signs and warnings... Beach closures due to weather, rip currents or storms, surfing only beaches, no alcohol or pot, no dogs or pets.  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 drift off and fly 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 at stores and shops.  It's now all about bringing your reusable bags to save the planet from those fly-away plastic ones.
*Lastly, be courteous.  Courtesy is key.  Be kind and considerate of all those enjoying this beautiful moment along with you. Keep the profanity at home.  It's a lot of fun being at the beach.  Let's enjoy together. Happy Beaching!

Looking Gray

This Morning's Webcam - N.Wildwood

Mornin'!  It's 71° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 80% with a dewpoint of 62°.  Ms Sun's behind the clouds as it's a gray morning.  Winds are barely there out of the South at 3-5mph.  It'll be a partly cloudy / partly sunny day with temps in the upper 70s and S-SE winds at 10-15mph.  Tonight... partly cloudy with clouds increasing as we head into the overnight.  There's a slight chance of a passing stray shower or thunderstorm.  Temps will drop to where they are now... around 70° with South winds at 10-15mph.  Tomorrow... mostly cloudy with rain developing later in the day (30% chance) with the possibility of rain into the night.  Temps will be in the upper 70s with S-SW winds at 10-20mph.  Tomorrow night... possible rain, temps in the upper 60s and Southerly breezes at 5-10mph.  As for the weekend, Saturday's looking partly sunny with temps near 80° and Sunday's looking partly to mostly cloudy with temps around 77°.  
High Tide: 10:16AM
Low Tide: 4:18PM
Ocean Temp: 71°
Sunrise: 6:06AM
Sunset: 8:23PM
UV Index: 6.9
Rip Current: Low risk
I noticed the last couple days our ocean temperature has been dropping down.  Just this past weekend, it was up to 77° and today the reference I checked reported ocean temp of  71°.  I was in the ocean yesterday and immediately felt the coldness.  Brrrr... not my cup of tea.  Although those tropical storms and hurricanes feed off of warm ocean water so I guess it's better on the chilly side.  

Summer Weather At Its Best

Cape May NJ - Jackson St.

Mornin'!  It's 66° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 87% with a dewpoint of 60°.  Ms Sun's up and trying her best to shine through the hazy sky.  She's dealing with some milky cloud cover at the moment.  There's barely a breeze... out of the N-NE at 2-3mph.  It'll be a sunny, beauty today with temps barely tapping 80° and E-NE breezes at 5-10mph.  Tonight... clear to partly cloudy.  There will be some of the leftover Full Moon shining over the island with temps down into the mid-upper 60s and S-SE breezes at 5-10mph.  Tomorrow... sunny with some cloud cover in the mix, temps around 80° and Southerly winds ramping up at 10-20mph (pack the bungee cord for those umbrellas).  As for this coming weekend... Saturday will be a "wake to rain" day but we should see sunshine through the partly cloudy/partly sunny day.  Sunday... partly to mostly sunny.  Both weekend days will have mild, comfortable temps barely tapping 80°.
High Tide: 9:23AM
Low Tide: 3:25PM
Ocean Temp: 75°
Sunrise: 6:05AM
Sunset: 8:24PM
Moonrise: 9:18PM
UV Index: 8.4
Rip Current: Low risk

August Has Arrived!

Mornin'!  Welcome August!  It's 67° in Wildwood NJ.  Humidity's 82% with a dewpoint of 60°.  Winds are out of the NE at 5-10mph.  It's going to be a perfectly lovely summer day this 1st day of August.  Expect abundant sunshine, temps around 83° and NE winds at 5-10mph.  Tonight... clear and moonlit, temps around 65° and East winds at 5-10mph.  There's a Coastal Flood Advisory posted today from 7pm until 1am tomorrow morning (probably due to the Full Moon).  Be aware of those low-lying areas on the island and don't drive through flood waters.  And, speaking of tomorrow... sunny, high near 82°, and North winds at 5-10mph.  Thursday... mostly sunny with 20% chance of rain in the afternoon.  Temps will be in the low-80s.  
High Tide: 8:31AM
Low Tide: 2:29PM
Ocean Temp: 78°
Sunrise: 6:04AM
Sunset: 8:25PM
Moonrise: 8:41PM
UV Index: 8.3
Rip Current: Low risk