Counting down

Just a few thoughts to put down here before we close out 2011...

For a state that gets a lot of wind, even today was a bit extreme. The top wind gust that was recorded in Kansas was at the Goodland National Weather Service office, where the anemometer hit 77 mph! It's not shocking that reports of wind damage came in from that area. (roof partially blown off a house and a big car accident west of town on I-70). Most wind reports were between 55-65 mph. Even now winds are gusting over 45 mph here in Wichita. I hear the classic howling sound outside as the wind blasts through the KWCH tower and guy wires this evening.

Sad to say that my New Year's resolution in 2011 was not met. I did not get my amateur radio license upgraded like I had planned. However, I still have the books, so it's up to me to set aside the time to try it again in 2012. I also hope to make more contributions to this blog.

Be safe this evening and Happy New Year! I wish you a wonderful and prosperous 2012!

Lunar eclipse on Saturday

Since we've received a few emails here at work asking about it, I thought I'd chime in! There is a total lunar eclipse this upcoming Saturday morning, starting at 6:45 a.m Wichita time. However residents in Kansas will only see a partial eclipse, as the moon will set before totality is reached. Wichita's "moonset" time is 7:33 a.m.

For more information, please go to this story from NASA.

Some snow reports today

Quite the impressive totals from this winter storm. The roads however are not so impressive, thanks to the snowpacked and icy conditions. Travel safely this evening in those areas if you have to be out at all.