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Ephemeral pools in dune field down island NPS photo |
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The average rainfall is 37 inches. The warm climate is characterized both by periods of drought and periods of heavy rain. Prevailing southeasterly winds averaging 12 miles per hour, but which can normally range between 5 and 25 mph, bring salt spray and moisture laden air from the Gulf of Mexico. Hurricanes sometimes inundate the island with saltwater and can cut washover channels from the Gulf to the Laguna Madre in less than a day or two.
Padre Island's location in the northwest corner means that the southeasterly winds prevailing in the Gulf blow many objects, both natural and artificial, onto its shore as well as creating longshore currents which can bring much material for good or bad. Probably the most serious damage to the National Seashore's environment is done by trash, which washes onto the beaches from offshore. The trash comes from a variety of sources including the shrimping industry, offshore natural gas platforms, and washing out of rivers and streams surrounding the Gulf. Much of the trash is either plastic or styrofoam.
Related Information
Current ozone level and weather information
Takes you to an NPS webpage on the current ozone and weather conditions for Padre Island. Please note all measurements are in the metric system.
NPS Nature and Science Website
This link provides an overview of nature and science within the National Park Service.
Padre Island National Seashore Administrative History
Read the park's Administrative History for information on the background and founding of the park and to find out the reasoning behind the park's current policies and regulations.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Webpage on Harmful Algal Blooms (red tide)
This page provides information on the scientific basis for as well as details on the signs and effects of red tide.
NPS Scientific Research and Collecting Permit.
This permit is required for scientific activities pertaining to natural resources or social science studies in National Park System areas that involve fieldwork, specimen collection, and/or have the potential to disturb resources or visitors.
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