Blossom Valley

• Wind directionW (270°) → NW (315°)
• Ideal speed7–12 mph
• Upper limits≤ 15 mph base · gusts ≤ 23

SDHGPA (USHPA chapter) lists Blossom Valley as W-NW oriented, ideal wind WNW (~292 deg). Ideal arc W (270) to NW (315); marginal edges extend toward SW (~225) per orientation octants but ANY south component is a serious hazard - it builds rotor/turbulence off ridge spines in the Thumper Bowl and pushes pilots into the lee. Ideal speed ~7-12 mph (8-10 kt preferred); max usable ~13 mph PG / 15 mph HG; gusty conditions are dangerous (PG gust tolerance very low ~4 mph, HG ~8 mph). Advanced site: USHPA H4/P4 recommended (some sources say H3/P3 min), M2 mountain skill, and TOP LANDING is effectively required (no sanctioned valley LZ; high-tension power lines in the valley). Highest accident rate among San Diego mountain sites. Hazards: 'Thumper,' a violent unpredictable leeside house thermal to the north of launch - do NOT scratch below launch height north of launch. Slope/cliff launch, one glider at a time. Best time: summer early evening, other seasons afternoon after peak heating. Mandatory site briefing with experienced locals; if locals aren't flying there's a reason. Also RC aircraft and occasional low-flying aircraft in the area. 4WD or hiking access to launch.