Rincon, Puerto Rico Surf Forecast – Aug 13, 2017

Tropical Storm Gert – Surf for Rincon?

I sure hope so! However, there is a reason why I chose the current wind field as the main image of this post. The wind field is pathetic and the pressure is also not very low. We need more wind, lower pressure, and a more symmetrical storm to get any decent surf. Here’s the deal, Gert should be in a favorable environment over the next day and a half. Because Tropical Storm Gert is sitting in an ideal location of our swell window, if the storm does blow up we’ll be surfing here in Rincon for a few days with very good conditions. We have hope! Let’s all start chanting together now – GERT! GERT! GERT! GERT!

Using Automated Forecast Tools:

Remember that no matter what a computer model tells you, what you see on the beach might be completely different. That's why i go take pictures of the beach every day. These tools help give an idea of what to expect, but weather prediction is not always exact especially the further out you try to forecast. Surf forecasting takes into account the general correlation between past weather data and resulting surf conditions. Another thing to keep in mind is the difference between actual swell height and the face height of the rideable wave it creates. For example. When the waves are forecast to have a 6ft swell at 13 seconds or higher with a NW angle we normally get waves that most people would call double over-head on sets. Swell angle is also important, especially for shorter period swell (9-11 seconds). For example 3ft at 11 seconds from the NW will make a bigger wave than 4ft at 9 seconds from the NE. Normally longer period swell (13+ seconds) will be more powerful and keep the surf size a little better even if the angle isn't a direct hit to Rincon. Generally any swell less than 9 seconds is super weak here in Rincon unless it has a lot of west in it. Also, most NE swell under 12 seconds is weak and mushy. 2ft at 8 seconds is generally small to flat. ENE swell will almost never make it into Rincon unless it was something like 10ft at 18 seconds from the ENE.