Expedition team braves storm and makes progress

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Expedition team update: Stormy days and progress on route

The expedition team has another update for us. Unfortunately, the previous update was aborted due to an interruption in the satellite link. This can happen when using the Iridium network, which works with overflying satellites. Fortunately, we are now back online and can update you on the latest developments.

Stormy days

Yesterday there was no update due to the severe storm that lasted all day. Inside the tent it was a hellish noise and we could barely understand each other. In fact, it was so noisy that it was impossible to pick up a phone call. Nevertheless, we managed to set up three tents in the evening. Five of us each pitched one tent and then moved on to the next. The wind was so strong that KNMI had issued code orange. We estimated that we were dealing with wind force eight. Inside the tent it was a cacophony of sound, with flapping tent cloths and flapping tent poles. Fortunately, the storm has now subsided and the tent has become a lot quieter.

Cold and progress

Right now it is -5 degrees Celsius outside and it is expected to get even colder tonight, with temperatures around -10 degrees Celsius. Despite the cold, we are glad the wind has died down and we had a beautiful day today. Although it started with a lot of wind, after two shifts the wind picked up to the point where we wondered if we should keep going or pitch the tent to seek safety. In the end, the whole team chose to walk on and we finished the fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth shifts. After the sixth shift, the wind finally died down and we can sleep in a quiet tent for the first time in two nights, apart from the soft snoring of a teammate. On yesterday we covered 22 kilometers and today another 23 kilometers. We are now on our way to the abandoned radar station Dye 2, which is still 281 kilometers away. We estimate that we will arrive there in about 12 to 13 days, depending on conditions.

Conclusion

This was the update from the expedition team. Despite the stormy days, we still made progress on our route. We hope the next few days will be more favorable and that we can bring you more news tomorrow.