Not gone with the wind

Leaving Argelès and the Tramontane after many days of gusts up to 90KH

It is created by the difference of pressure between the cold air of  high and low pressure systems and gathers speed as it is funneled between the Pyrenees and Massif Central. Allegedly Marco Polo used its name as early as 1298.

Victor Hugo has one his characters saying the  "The wind coming over the mountain will drive me mad."

Traditionally it blows 3, 6, or 9 days. In Argelès is was going for nine days of howling.

Coming to Geneva, we ran into the Bise which blows from the north-east, above all during the winter months, and is due to a high-pressure cell north-west of  the country. I believe them when they say the effects are strongest in Geneva because of the tunnel between the Alps and Jura.

Yesterday we saw the white caps on the lake and water being thrown across the sidewalks. Waves battered the cement walls separating the lake from the shore.

Last night the Bise wrapped the house in its arms and shook the house.

I do love winter. Bad weather is so much more interesting than good weather.

Bundling up is an art form leaving one's cheeks being nibbled and the rest of the body warm. With luck I will not be gone with the wind, blown away over the mountains in either Switzerland or France.