The Big Swell Arrives

I think the last post I was predicting a kickback swell from the northeast generated by an intensifying low moving offshore last Saturday night. I thought the surf would get right Sunday night or Monday morning. The swell was there (although smaller)but the wind was down the beach from the north-northeast and then from the south. Finally Tuesday night the wind twisted hard into the southwest, brought 77 degree air, and lined up a mammoth northeast swell topping out around double overhead. The wind tore at the wave faces at a solid 25+ knots and finally clicked around straight offshore (west) before nightfall.

Going to work on the Beach Road in Kitty Hawk this morning there was ocean overwash on the road in numerous places from the earlier high tide. Years ago we learned to creep slowly through any standing water on the Beach Road during a big swell after high tide cause it's salt water. I suppose there are some who visit here in their city SUV's who don't understand this, so they blow through the water, sand, and debris as if they're doin' a commercial for a four-wheel-drive vehicle. The rust applauds them later I'm sure.

I was in Southern Shores oceanfront most of the day. Many closeouts seen most of the time. The report I got from First Street, KDH was about the same around dusk. Of course, some guys were trying it on for size, and size it had plenty of.

Water's still hanging around 50-51 degrees. We'll get there yet warm water. Watch SurfKDH.com for Micky's photos of this swell. He'll be on it as always.

The Easter tourists are pouring into town now. Will check back in later.