I was out a few weeks ago and there were a couple of USGS guys on skis working their way through the lineup with a whole mess of electronics on board. I figure they were mapping the bottom. Anyone have any ideas on where I could find that data? I checked the USGS site and did some searching but turned up nothing.

I'm writing a series of forecasting blogs for my official work blog, nothing too in depth, and many of you already know much of it, but I thought there might be some interest.

While I was all pissed off last weekend about tires, I completely forgot to mention my distant encounter with a shark.

Today, after nearly more than 15 years of surfing, I had my first encounter with localism on a physical and personal level. I've gotten the stink eye paddling out at a localized spot, i've dropped in on the bro-est bro and been berated for it, and I like to think I've made it through all of these experiences with some level of dignity intact.

Today was on a different level.

Yesterday, QuikScat, the satellite responsible for most wind measurements over the ocean failed, most likely permanently. There are other satellites, notably ascat, that provide similar functionality, but cover far less area than QuikScat did.