The Storm

The Storm

The storm coming from the Weddle Sea is upon us. Last night a large
multilayer altostratus/altocumulus system with cirrus layers hovering around
the mountain fell upon us. This morning we awoke to abnormally high winds
here at VBC, blowing snow, and zero visibility. Patriot Hills is reporting
much if the same. They also radioed in with snowfall and low visibility.
The forecast is calling for this low to last for two more days. So if the
weather continues on this pattern, our first chance to fly out (out meaning
to Patriots, then to Punta Arenas) will most likely be on Christmas eve. So
my hope of being home for Christmas is all but gone. With any luck? I
might? be home for New years? I am still keeping my fingers crossed for
around the 26th of December. But as you may have gathered, who knows? So
movement around the mountain is nil, everyone is battening down the hatches,
digging in, and waiting it out. Dave Wuchner gave me a book "Hocus Pocus"
by Kurt Vonnegut, which I am now taking the time to read. Thanks Dave. So
reading, journaling, and rocking out to music in my little yellow North Face
world, head buried in my -40 degree sleeping bag, which is pink and very
cheery. So for now, much like a week ago, we wait. Waiting for good
weather. So all of you out there kicking back, feet up on the coffee table,
looking at that beautifully lit Christmas tree, watching TV...have a beer,
glass of wine, or in Michael's case a big glass of chocolate milk, none of
which we have here at the moment, for me. Thinking of you guys, ready to
see everyone, getting tired of the ice, as if you couldn't already tell.
Lots of love!

Chris

Vinson Base Camp
Antarctic Logistics and Expeditions
vinson.base@antarctic-logistics.com

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