Happy Trails: June 2017

There is a profound sense of being safe here on Sable. There are no threats from wildlife on the island, no concern of drowning as we aren't allowed into the ocean, and as long as one can maintain their mental constitutions, there is no concern of an adverse impact from the isolation. It is an odd feeling, to be safe in a place that is renowned for it's sandy shoals resulting in so many fatal shipwrecks. Coupled with the harsh environment of the North Atlantic which bring seasonally driven storms of significant magnitude.

A short time ago, we entered into the 2017 hurricane season. To date, my tour has been relatively calm with respect to weather. 09 June that changed for a short period. The first storm of the season ripped up the coast, and had us in its direct path. It was a surreal experience overall. Shortly after dinner the winds picked up and some rain started to fall. The weather maps showed a hurricane shaped system headed our way. As we watched the wind speeds pick up, it became time to release the 2315Z radiosonde weather balloon. 15 minutes before release time, I went outside and observed a change in the weather. Suddenly the skies were blue and the sun was shinning, with dark clouds circling on each horizon. We were in the eye of the storm. We successfully released the balloon in approximately 39 knots, just as the eye had passed and the northern edge of the southern half of the storm hit us. That night we topped out at 52 knots, not a hurricane force, but certainly an amazing experience. The side of me that enjoys dramatic weather was satisfied, it was time to check now for any related damages. Fortunately there were none to report, and all members of the island were safe.

Surface winds, 09 June 2017

Balloon/radiosonde release amidst the high winds, 09 June 2017

Weeks ago, I took a ride with the Parks Canada Coordinator eastward on the north beach to take a look at a shipwreck which is visible at low tide. The SS Skidby sunk in 1905 off the shores of Sable, and has remained in shallow depth ever since. There is not much left of the ship, but a short mast is still visible. As we stood there, calmly looking at the resting place of a violent shipwreck, the feeling of the Safe v. Dangerous comparison could not be ignored. The fear of the crew as they abandoned ship, only to be on a desolate island with a member of the life saving establishment onshore, awaiting to help as best they could to calm the shock.

SS Skidby (1905)

It is an odd feeling to be safe amidst what could be such a dangerous location. One that shouldn’t and isn’t taken lightly. No false sense of confidence can creep in, or mistakes could be made, both in judgement and in action. During a recent weekend I was able to go with the Parks Canada employees in a vehicle, and we toured the entire island; both shores, and both the West and East tips. It was a great opportunity to view the entire island. The trip to the West Tip was foggy and rainy, while the next day was clear and sunny when we went to the East Tip. A truly authentic Sable Island experience.

West Tip

Mast from an unknown shipwreck

Shipwreck remains (unknown)

Remains of the Merrimac (1999)

Bald Dune

East Light

East Tip

With the knowledge of the massive storms that this island has endured, I have been witness to many gorgeous sunsets in the calm times. The sky seems to go on forever, with all horizons displaying a unique characteristic as the sun fades each day.