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Current conditions
Where it is
What we look for at Palomar
Wind direction
SSW (200°) → WNW (290°)
The wind must blow from within this arc. Direction is the same for both wings.
Ideal speed
5–10 mph
Ceiling · Paragliding
≤ 19 mph base · gusts ≤ 23
Top of the range for paragliding (any rating) — switch wings up top to compare. Hang gliders hold roughly 10 mph more than paragliders.
SDHGPA-managed site (San Diego). Main Launch faces SW; ideal wind FROM ~220-320 deg (S/SW/W), acceptable 170-300. Ideal speed: PG min 0 / HG min 5, ideal 8 (PG) to 9 (HG); max 15 mph with gusts 5-8 mph. HAZARD: the "Toilet Bowl" is a known rotor zone immediately behind/east of launch — stay on the windward side, get high before drifting back with thermals well above terrain. Area above Main Launch can be very turbulent until early evening; mid-day flying is turbulent and needs advanced skill. Best time: afternoon through evening glass-off; fall-spring best, summer turbulent. Can work in mild Santa Ana due to valley micro-climate, but strong east winds penetrating over the mountain create layered rotor/shear/valley wind hazards. Upper "Smiley" Launch is a separate SE-S facing launch (ideal S-SW, 8-10 mph, not recommended in any west wind). Rating: H3/P3 (or H2/P2 with higher-rated pilots, site briefing, and instructor sign-off). Access: current USHPA + SDHGPA membership required; mixed paved/dirt drive-up road, do not drive single-occupant vehicles to launch.
Window data compiled from sdhgpa.com — public site guides and club resources.
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