Waves and Weather at La Push

The beauty of spring storms, where the Pacific Ocean meets the coast, are a photographer's dream. It's the times before a storm and after a front passes that are most intriguing and hold potential. Planning revolves around rain, wind and tides. Studies of weather patterns, clouds and other signs, date back to my high school and college days. Competitive sailing brought focus and enjoyment studying the complexities of wind and weather.  The internet has brought powerful tools to bare to track storms, know the wave heights and rain patterns, but there are always surprises

The Quillayute River, a convergence of four rivers, empties into the Pacific here. It was an integral source of life for the Quileute peoples for millennia. James Island, or A-Ka-Lat, stands at it's mouth, with it's rich, ancient history. It's always a privilege to be here.

Storm approaching

A strong offshore wind was creating some very beautiful and ephemeral back spray with the incoming waves. Breaks in the clouds brought brief light to areas in the scene

 While walking out to the point, sea lions in the river are in search of their next salmon treat.

There is a peace here that is comforting and welcome.

Oregon Coast Storm

With careful study of weather reports and satellite photos, it looked like there were would be a good opportunity for interesting storm photographs. Waves from the NW were reported in the 25-30 foot range. After the cold front, the clouds looked like they could be interesting.

On the way, my step-daughter called to let me know about elk that were just off Highway 101 near Cannon Beach. Always a joy to see.

A fleeting family portrait

After meeting her and the elk, the next stop was Hug Point. The waterfall there is very beautiful, but the tide was very high, and I thought it might be interesting to explore the falls from behind. It was a foaming, frothy area in front of the falls, with large logs being tossed about like toothpicks.

Hug Point waterfall at high tide

When the waves are this large, they break far offshore. In order to see them closer, deeper water near shore was a requirement. There is a beautiful spot south of Hug Point to observe and photograph, so I headed there. A squall was approaching, getting out there quickly was of the essence.

Large waves and approaching squall

The squall hit and I retreated to the woods until the rain, hail and wind passed. I returned and waited for the sun to make a brief appearance. It was getting close to sunset.

Sunshine, waves, and foam with the squall now retreating

The sun retreated behind the clouds of the next squall. Took some photos as darkness, rain and lightning approached. Made it back to the van just before serious rain fell. Some lightning was also present, but too random to photograph. Also better to be on the safe side.

Thundering waves in diminishing light

More Photos of this storm here>>