Storm-bound kiters chase fast rides at Lohusalu harbor

Strong winds drew kite surfers to Lohusalu harbor in Estonia on Saturday, as they tried to make the most of the Baltic Sea waves before the storm, ERR reported in a report by Aktuaalne kaamera.

The surfers arrived throughout the afternoon, looking for the right moment to ride. While Andrus was already making jumps several metres above the water, Tarmo was still preparing his equipment.

Tarmo said the approaching rain cloud could make the wind uneven, but conditions would be good if the wind strengthened before it arrived.

Wind has been particularly favourable for kite surfing since spring, Tarmo said, adding that the arrival of autumn usually brings windy weather as well.

Andrus said his pulse had risen too high and that he needed to rest after coming straight from the sea. He described the experience as highly exciting and said he could have jumped higher if there had not been gaps in the wind.

He recommended kite surfing to everyone, calling it an addiction that people cannot shake.

Andrus also warned that the sport can become dangerous during a storm. If the kite can no longer be held and begins lifting the surfer into the air without control, conditions are unsafe, he said. Blowing sand on the beach is an early warning sign that people should pay attention.