Markell's essential handbook, now in a fully updated second edition, tells the sailor where to get the latest weather information and how to make the best use of it. Part I deals with the collection and distribution of weather information as well as some of the author's thoughts on evaluating timeliness and accuracy. Part II covers several matters the small boat sailor should be aware of in dealing with the weather, such as maintaining a good weather watch on the vessel, being aware of the different seasonal weather patterns in various areas, and the El Ni–o phenomenon. Part III explains the basic mechanics of weather systems and how they form, move, and dissipate.
Contents include: sources and distribution of weather information; public access to weather reports; onboard instruments; weather in the major areas of North America; fog; weather and the oceans; freshwater lakes and rivers; heat, pressure, and planetary circulation; El Ni–o and La Ni–a; clouds; air masses and weather fronts; cyclonic and violent storms; and more.
