Currents

Question 1

1. In The Narrows

Answer 1

In The Narrows current velocities exceed 5 knots at times. At the N end of The Narrows the current sets N most of the time on the E side of the passage and S most of the time on the W side.

Question 2

2. Hale Passage

Answer 2

The current in Hale Passage attains a velocity in excess of 3 knots at times. The E (ebb) current is stronger than the W (flood) current.

Question 3

3. Pitt Passage

Answer 3

Pitt Passage, between Key Peninsula and McNeil Island, connects Drayton Passage and Carr Inlet. Only the passage E of Pitt Island is used by small craft with local knowledge. In this passage the ebb (N current) is stronger than the flood and attains a velocity of 2.5 knots or more at times.

Question 4

4. Drayton Passage

Answer 4

Drayton Passage - Estimated current velocities of 1 to 2 knots occur at the SW end of the passage.

Question 5

5. Steilacoom

Answer 5

Steilacoom - there are tide rips which, with a wind opposing the current, are dangerous to small boats.

Question 6

6. In Pickering Passage

Answer 6

In Pickering Passage the flood current sets from Case Inlet toward Hammersley Inlet and the ebb in the opposite direction. The strongest currents are near the S end where velocities reach 2.5 knots at times.

Question 7

7. Peale Passage

Answer 7

Peale Passage - The current at times attains a velocity of 2.0 knots in the narrow part of the passage, and sets N on the flood.

Question 8

8. Dana Passage

Answer 8

The currents in Dana Passage frequently attain velocities of 3 knots or more.

Question 9

9. Squaxin Passage

Answer 9

Tide rips are said to occur in Squaxin Passage. The usual velocity of the current is about 1.5 knots.