Be WaterWise #5 - Wind & Weather: Hidden Dangers on Open Water

Whether you packraft alpine lakes, flat water or even the lochs of Scotland, you should understand the dangers of packrafting on flatwater. Flatwater may seem benign and totally safe, but if you're out in the middle of a very cold lake on a windy day and you aren't dressed properly for cold water, things could go south very quickly! So how can you develop good judgement on flatwater? Knowing the conditions of the body of water you are planning to paddle is KEY! Suggestion: Wind, waves, and weather can quickly transform calm water into dangerous conditions. Learning how to anticipate and respond to wind and weather doesn’t just protect you—it helps prevent avoidable emergencies, reduces strain on rescue resources, and builds a stronger, better-prepared packrafting community.

Make Sure to Check out all 10 of the Safety Videos at https://www.packraft.org/pages/education/water-wise-safety-videos