Skydiving is an exhilarating outdoor activity that relies on fairly favorable weather conditions. As it involves both aircraft and parachutes, various weather conditions can influence whether (no pun intended :)) or not your skydive will go ahead as scheduled. Understanding how different weather conditions affect skydiving and the safety thereof, can help set your expectations, especially when your jump might need to be delayed or rescheduled.
Here at BIGWAVE we don’t make you come in or wait around unnecessarily. We carefully check many different weather forecasts and indicators and keep you updated as much as possible with timely communication.
Rain and Thunderstorms: The Most Obvious No-Go
Rain and thunderstorms are perhaps the most recognisable weather hazards for skydiving. Jumping through rain is not just uncomfortable—it can be downright painful. During freefall, you’re moving at speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour (about 120 mph), which means raindrops hit your skin with significant force. This could leave you with tiny red marks, a sensation far from the thrill most people sign up for. And if that weren’t bad enough, thunderstorms bring with them risks of turbulence, lightning, and unpredictable winds, making them a complete no-go for any skydiving operation.
If rain is forecasted for the day of your jump we will let you know and keep you updated. In the Greater Sydney area, rain events do not usually last the entire day and so it may just be that your time slot is shifted around the weather.
Clouds: Not Just Fluffy and Harmless
While clouds may seem harmless from the ground, they play a crucial role in skydiving safety. The presence, density, and type of clouds affect both aircraft and parachute navigation. Clouds can be classified into various types—solid, broken, layered, or a combination of these. For skydivers, solid clouds are particularly problematic as they obscure visibility for both pilots and jumpers.
In Australia, there are strict aviation rules governing both flying and skydiving in cloudy conditions. Pilots must be trained and licensed to fly in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC), which require specialised instruments onboard the aircraft. Moreover, skydiving drop zones operating in cloudy weather must adhere to the guidelines outlined by the Australian Parachute Federation. Sometimes, clouds may be present but positioned at a high altitude, allowing jumps to proceed safely beneath them. However, safety always takes precedence, and skydiving operators continuously monitor cloud activity to make informed decisions.
Some people worry that clouds might ruin their skydiving photos and videos. On the contrary, the clouds that are safe to skydive in can enhance visuals by creating a stunning backdrop and adding depth to your freefall moments. Their soft, white appearance against the vibrant blue sky makes for breathtaking visuals.
Wind: Clear Skies Can Still Be Deceptive
Even if the skies are clear, wind conditions can make or break a skydiving experience. Wind speed, direction, and altitude are critical factors in determining whether it’s safe to jump. While ground-level winds may appear calm, strong winds at higher altitudes can pose serious risks.
Wind is particularly crucial for parachuting. Strong or gusty winds can make moving the parachute towards the landing area difficult, with gusts affecting the canopy itself. Additionally, wind direction combined with speed can create turbulence, especially near obstacles like trees, buildings, or natural features such as an escarpment.
Operators also monitor wind gusts closely, as there are strict limits on average and maximum gust speeds. These limits ensure that jumps are not only safe but also enjoyable. For skydivers, “too windy” doesn’t have a universal definition, as safety depends on local conditions, including the landscape and surrounding terrain as well as drop zone specific factors like size, experience level of instructors and pilots. Trust your skydiving operator’s judgment—they’re experts at assessing these variables.
Why Communication Matters
Negative reviews of skydiving experiences often stem from poor communication rather than the weather itself. Most people understand that skydiving is a weather-dependent activity, but we understand that they also appreciate clear and timely updates. A lack of communication can leave customers feeling frustrated, especially if they’ve traveled far or taken time off for their jump.
AT BIGWAVE Skydive we prioritise open communication—whether through phone calls, emails, or text updates. By keeping you informed about weather conditions and potential delays, we ensure your skydiving experience remains positive, even when Mother Nature has other plans.
We use a variety of apps and weather information tools to make informed decisions and in turn keep you updated.
The Thrill Is Worth the Wait
Skydiving is an experience like no other, offering unparalleled views and adrenaline-pumping excitement. While the weather plays a significant role in determining when and how you jump, understanding its impact can help you appreciate the meticulous planning involved in ensuring your safety. By staying informed and flexible, you can turn even a weather delay into part of the adventure.
So whether it’s clear skies, gusty winds, or a sudden cloud cover, trust your skydiving team to make the best call for a safe skydive. The thrill of freefalling through the sky is always worth the wait!
