Today’s Paddling Tip is what to check for before going for a paddle. This tip is relevant for paddling on our stretch of the river (above Teddington Lock).

Weather

River flow: Know your limits. There is some good information on river conditions here: https://hamptoncanoeclub.org/staying-safe-on-higher-river-flow/

Windspeed: My limit for paddling my K1 is a maximum wind speed of around 20km/hr. Yours may differ. If you intend to paddle in high winds you may wish to consider a more stable boat than you’re used to.

Temperature: If it’s cold, refer to the tip on dressing for winter paddling. Also check that the water body you’re planning to paddle on is not frozen! Parts of the Basingstoke Canal has often frozen over. The Thames can be frozen immediately above Sunbury lock portage where there is little flow.

Thunderstorms: Don’t paddle if thunderstorms are predicted. You are at increased risk of lightening strike on the river.

River closures/restrictions

Always check for river closures,  restrictions or works on locks etc before you paddle.

Light

Check if it’s going to be dark during your paddle. If so, you will need a white light fore and aft of your boat

Sources of information

River closures and river flow conditions are listed on the Environment Agency section of the Gov.UK website: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/river-thames-current-river-conditions

This website brings lots of information together including times of sunrise and sunset, river conditions (warning boards), river flow, water levels as well as river closures and restrictions: https://andrie.quarto.pub/river-thames-conditions-at-hampton-court/#times-of-sunrise-and-sunset

Met Office website for weather (including wind speed): https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/