Sunday, January 27, 2008

Weekly Report Daintree Coast 28/1 - 3/2/08

Last weeks weather was cooler, the southeast change dropped temperatures a bit and we had one decent rainfall during the week. This bought out the red eyed green tree frogs in huge numbers, and closed the Bloomfield Track for a day. The coastal swamps filled again, and the White Lipped Green Tree Frogs are calling in huge numbers again.

This week again has the chance of rain, but winds moderate, and it should be a good time to visit the reef. There are two boats on the Daintree Coast, Rum Runner for a relaxed day out and scuba diving options, and an exciting ½ Day Trip snorkeling with Ocean Safari.

NORTH TROPICAL COAST AND TABLELANDS DISTRICTIsolated showers developing during the afternoon with isolated thunderstormspossible west of the Tablelands. Light winds and moderate afternoon coastal seabreezes. Outlook for Tuesday ... Showers increasing to scattered with isolatedthunderstorms and tending to rain areas at night.Outlook for Wednesday ... Showers and rain areas with some moderate to heavyfalls about the coast and ranges. Isolated thunderstorms.

North Tropical Waters, Cooktown to Cardwell:Monday until midnight: SE winds 10/15 knots. Lighter SW winds inshore early. Local NE seabreezes inshore during the afternoon. Seas to 1.2 metres outside the reef, and 0.6 metres inside. Isolated showers.Tuesday: SE/NE winds 10/15 knots. Lighter SW winds inshore early. Seas to 1.2 metres outside the reef, and 0.6 metres inside. Isolated showers. Wednesday: SE/NE winds 10/15 knots.

The road to Cape Tribulation is open, but if any of the forecast heavy rain evens materialize, there may be localized flooding. I recommend caution when crossing patches of floodwater, even in 4WDs. It is very easy for an inexperienced driver to misjudge this water and be washed away. Drivers should also be aware of fallen branches and trees on the road after wind.

The Bloomfield Track is currently open, but is also prone to localized flooding after rain events. Those attempting the track should only do so in heavy duty 4WDs, and be prepared for very deep, washed out and rocky river crossings. It is also a good idea to seek local advice on the day.
Tides are neap early in the week with highs in the early morning from Friday