This storm has topped all the others so far this winter in terms of wind speeds. It was at it's peak around 2pm-3pm with force 11 winds gusting force 12 at times (80-90 mph at least). It was near impossible to stand up but we managed to find a few spots where we could safely tuck ourselves in and get some photos and video.
Ramsey Sound was a maelstrom of swirling foam. In 8 years on the island we've never seen anything like this. The mainland disappeared behind a whirlwind of sea spray. The farmhouse is ok so far but the farm buildings have taken a pounding and we have lost a few roofing sheets off our woodshed.
Below are a few photos of the storm which probably don't do it justice but I wasn't taking the good camera out in all that salt spray! I'll try and sort out a video or two later
The Bitches (from the old name Bitches and Welps) are a reef that sit just off Ramsey. On a calm day they are turbulent as the tide is forced over them, today they were wild!
'The Axe' is a rock that is technically detached from Ramsey but joined to us by our harbour wall. Water is forced through the gap at an accelerated rate. In summer boats and kayaks go through this gap!
And if the water doesn't go through The Axe it engulfs our harbour wall!
Even the dog got blown over!......(he was fine by the way before I get complaints!)
it wasn't only dogs that had trouble staying upright!
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