This article was produced in partnership with the Aquatics Foundation.
It may be tempting to throw caution to the wind and dive into the water with a canoe or paddle as soon as you wake up for the day, but you’re making the biggest mistake while you’re relaxing on the water. Failure to check the weather before loading up your canoe, kayak or standup paddleboard could spell disaster.
Even if the weather seems good where you are, it can change rapidly within a few hours, and atmospheric conditions can be even more unpredictable in different bodies of water.
Why Weather Matters
Ideal conditions rarely last long, whether on a small pond, a large lake, or near the ocean. There is a chance that thunderstorms could suddenly hit the area, creating dangerous conditions like lightning and high winds that could affect your ability to get back to shore safely.
If you are close to shore, you should check tide charts before you set out, as changes in tides can quickly affect the flow on the surface of the water. River runners should also check water flow on state or local websites that track river gauges to make sure you are not entering areas with currents that are too intense for your skill level.
Bring Weather-Appropriate Clothing
In addition to monitoring the weather and checking tides and currents, plan to bring or wear clothing appropriate for the forecast. Long-sleeved UPF clothing can help repel the sun’s rays, and packing a fleece hoodie and light raincoat can help prevent hypothermia if you get caught in a cold downpour on the water. Yes, you can get hypothermia even on a hot summer day.
Don't Be Afraid to Change Your Plans
After checking the weather forecast and water conditions in and around the area where you plan to paddle, if you see that there is a possibility of risky weather conditions such as severe storms, high winds, extreme heat or high water flow, cancel the trip. It is not worth the potential harm to you or your loved ones if you get caught in bad weather. There will be other days when you can enjoy paddling in calmer, safer waters.
In addition to checking the local weather before you set out, follow a few other safety precautions, such as bringing a well-fitting, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket, having proper training to operate your watercraft and avoiding drinking alcohol.
