The first big wind and rain storm of the season arrived with a vengeance this past week and the weatherman is promising more to come soon.
To some, that would call for hunkering down in front of a cozy fire behind well-insulated walls and windows. But for many who call the South Beach home and many more who come to visit throughout the winter months, it’s the beginning of opportunities for a whole new adventure that will blow you away— sometimes more literally than figuratively.
Storm watching has grown in popularity over the years and many local motels offer special winter rates or packages that often include three nights for the price of two. There are even a number of motels right on the water that will allow the less adventurous the still heart-pounding thrill of storm watching from the comfort of your quarters.
But by all means, get brave and get out there! From the South Jetty at Westhaven State Park in Westport to Jacobson’s Jetty just north of Tokeland, all along the 18 miles of scenic South Beach Mother Nature at her mightiest can be viewed up close in relative comfort if you bring your sense of adventure and come prepared.
The watchwords here are layers and safety. First— Layers— Dress warmly from the skin out in materials that insulate your body and keep out the wet. Start with underwear that covers you from neck to wrist to ankles. Choose long underwear, or thin, snug-fitting pants with a long-sleeved T-shirt or turtleneck. Next, layer on some insulation in the form of sweaters, sweatshirts and other similar garments. For your outer shell, choose garments that are windproof, and preferably waterproof. Coated nylon or polyester is a good choice.
If you have a ways to travel after you leave the beach, be sure to bring along at least another jacket or coat you can change into. Hiking boots that provide good support are best. Be sure to wear thick socks that allow your toes some wiggle room so your body heat can circulate, and warm gloves. Speaking of body heat, don’t forget good all-weather headgear that will stay on your head in blustery winds. Up to 50% of body head is lost from the top of your head.
And now— safety— While winter storms can be exciting and amazing when viewed “up close and personal,” you need to be safe. Stay out of the surf and off driftwood. Just a few scant inches of water can lift a log and roll it over on top of you. Climbing the jetty rocks in the winter season is not advisable. Aside from being slippery all year around, winter wave surges can come without warning. A good rule of thumb is to get no closer to the surf line than that which gets no more than the bottoms of your shoes wet. Watch the water, as well. Sneaker waves can come unexpectedly and roll well up onto the beach.
Be sure you do your storm watching in full daylight, keeping in mind that the sun sets early this time of year.
For the somewhat less adventurous, even driving down one of several beach access roads, parking your car, and braving the elements for a few minutes will be a thrill. Be sure to drive carefully as you approach the first dune, winter storms often eroded the bank line. Never walk near or under any sand overhang and don’t dig in the sand walls. Keeping a respectful distance is again the watchword here.
However you encounter Mother Nature’s fury this time of year, the South Beach storm watching season is a great way to spend a late fall or winter holiday.