Forecast—Relief Coming for the Heat Wave

Lake Martin provides a break from the heat!

Never before have so many people been so willing to obey the command, “GO JUMP IN THE LAKE!” We have noticed lots of people have come to the lake to get a break from the very high temperatures over the last three weeks.

Many people used to think that when someone told them to “Go jump in the lake!” it was meant to bring harm or correction. Locally, the suggestion has been embraced by many (including the author) as a relief from the triple-digit heat indices and/or heat warnings. We have also noticed that people are being very creative in the way that they jump into the lake.

Some people ease in from the shoreline until they get about waist high and then, after getting used to the water temperature, dive in headfirst. Other people dive in from the pier after hearing from others that the water feels great.

Still, others go for a boat ride first and then, upon finding a quiet spot, dive from the side of the boat and float around enjoying the clear, refreshing lake water. Those who plan their boat trip in advance bring noodles or floats, so they can stay in the water for extended periods of time. (For those who fail to plan ahead, you can always use your personal floatation device that is required by the Marine Police.)

We have noticed some people have taken jumping into the lake as a new art form or team endeavor. Kids are especially creative when it comes to jumping in the lake. They will try cannonballs, fancy dives, or even running down the dock followed by a broad jump into the lake. And our favorite is the team effort when multiple kids all jump in together, or even better, when they invite man’s best friend to join in the action. (Dogs need to beat the heat, too!)

Of course, on Lake Martin, no jumping in the lake consideration is complete without talking about the dive from Chimney Rock (or Chicken Rock). On busy weeks like the Fourth of July, there are hundreds of boats that come by then park to watch some really HOT daredevils step off the ledge to fall what seems like minutes before they hit the refreshing waters of Lake Martin. (They must be hot, because no one in their right mind would jump from that height!)

If you are not at the lake and sweltering in the heat, drop what you are doing and drive to Lake Martin, Alabama. Then, with all due respect and concern for your welfare, “GO JUMP IN THE LAKE!”

The Challenge

Take a photo of YOUR BEST JUMP, and we will publish the top ten efforts next month in this newsletter. To submit, please send it in via email to [email protected].