Day 261, Tuesday, 15 December, 2009

Distance travelled – 107.0 km
Avg speed –  14.8 kph
Max speed –  40.4 kph

Cowell to Whyalla

In retrospect, today was a day we should not have been riding. The official temperature in Whyalla when we arrived was 38^o and for most of the day we battled strong head winds. We have ridden in these conditions before but even with slow riding and lots of stops in the shade our water consumption was extremely high (nearly 15 litres) and we went close to running out. This is the first time in 8 months we have under estimated our water requirements and it was quite a shock given we usually arrive with lots to spare. Having run so low in such hot conditions we will be carrying heavier water loads from now on. Such an experience reinforces how dangerous this country can be if you are not fully prepared.

We have booked three air-conditioned nights at Whyalla. This evening remains very warm and tomorrow is expected to be 40^o with a cool change due tomorrow evening with temperatures returning to the mid 20’s on Thursday. What a contrast.

Zoom into the map and use the 'Satellite' layer to see our new location.

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