28-29 August, 2021. Trying to cool off in Alton, Illinois

 

Red strip on grain silo is high water of 1993

Heat index of over 100 degrees continues and unfortunately Serenity and crew remain very hot and uncomfortable.  We have enjoyed the cooling opportunities of the swimming pool here at that marina, but the marina location behind a 15 foot flood levy on the western side parallel to the river, and a large levy east of the marina means very little breeze gets to us.  It has been very hot and humid, with little change at night.  But, we have made the best of it.  We have walked early each morning.  Laundry washed, dried and put away.

Marina office

Old theater downtown

Old bank downtown—clock does not work

The marina is very clean and the bathrooms and showers are as nice as any we have visited.  Actually, the best on the entire trip.  Staff very friendly and accommodating.  Boat cleaning the best we could considering the heat.  While our slip is covered, 1/3 of the boat is in the sun during the morning hours and by the time all is shaded it was just to hot to clean more outside.

Local grocery

Schwegel’s market provides pick up and return for loopers staying at the marina.  We gave them a call and they picked us up and brought us back.  About a mile away up a pretty steep grade.

View of Mississippi from hill in town

Hurricane Ida will have an impact on our continued journey this week.   We are watching closely as Ida curves and heads NE across the Ohio and Tennessee valleys.  Extreme rain may cause flooding and excessive water run off may impact the Ohio river.  We have to run up current on the Ohio so more water will make that portion of the journey a bit more of a challenge.  Traveling down the Mississippi about 200 miles to the junction of the Ohio should not be impacted by the hurricane.  Further south will be an issue.

Planning to get underway early Monday morning.  Rain and thunderstorms in the forecast but not much wind in the St.Louis area.  Two locks to negotiate on the Mississippi.  First is only two miles away; second about 18 miles further south.  Hope there are no major delays.