Freshwater West • Statistics for September

September: The Autumn Hinge and Hurricane Pulses

September is the bridge between summer slop and winter power. Average swell edges back up to 4.3ft (1.3m) and the period lengthens to 8.2 seconds, a sign that the Atlantic is starting to stir. The optimal swell window remains fully loaded, with WSW at 32.6%, W at 15.1% and SW at 12.7%. What makes September special is the potential for late-season tropical activity; when a former hurricane rides up the Gulf Stream and transitions into an intense North Atlantic low, Freshwater West can suddenly see a long-period, pulsey swell with warm water and light winds. Ideal offshore wind rises to 19%, and the wind distribution is more evenly spread, with NNW at 9.9% offering cross-offshore relief. Water temp is still a warm 16.4°C and air temperatures average 15.4°C, so this is one of the best months for comfortable shoulder-to-head-high surf before the true winter chill arrives.