"I'm On My Way"
In the late afternoon yesterday, we were completely caught off guard by a surprise weather event that wasn't even forecasted. A sudden downpour of rain occurred as a freak storm swept in from the west and made an unexpected turn to the north, drenching my town and north towns with heavy rainfall.
We haven't had rain since April/May
Around here there's an infectious excitement that fills the air when the rain starts to fall. People rush outside, eager to feel the cool droplets on their skin, while children joyfully splash around in puddles. However, the mood shifts when lightning and thunder make an appearance, causing everyone to seek shelter. This dramatic weather persisted for a solid four hours before suddenly disappearing just as swiftly as it arrived.
We relaxed beneath our patio and all our windows in the house were wide open. The wind was quite strong, reaching up to 50mph in certain areas. It was absolutely wild!
The rain didn't extend to the southern part of our area, where the Park Fire is located. When we have rainfall like this, the last thing we want to encounter is lightning. This weather event led to the ignition of 6 small fires in my vicinity. Fortunately, as of this morning, they were under control. Downtown experienced some localized flooding, while near Dunsmuir, just up the road from us, there was a major accident on I-5 that caused miles of traffic backup. The accident involved a big rig truck that had overturned. Thankfully, there haven't been any reports of fatalities.
The first rainfall always seems to cause chaos on the roads, as drivers suddenly forget how to navigate the wet conditions.
As we set out yesterday morning, we were completely unaware that a heavy rainstorm was about to strike in a few hours.
This morning, as we made our way to the church, a delightful aroma filled the air, carrying the sweet scent of freshness. There was no hint of smoke, allowing us to fully enjoy the clean, fresh air around us.
This storm gave me another glimpse of Autumn as if whispering to me, "I'm on my way..." We still have over a month before the official start of Autumn, and even then, true fall weather usually doesn't arrive until the end of October to November.
In the breeze, I can hear it saying to me, "I'm on my way."
For me, I need to be patient and enjoy what is left of these miserable last days of August. Enjoy what is left of the summer of 2024.
When summer's end is nighing
And skies at evening cloud,
I muse on change and fortune
And all the feats I vowed
When I was young and proud.
A.E. Housman
Rain is a must for the land but often a pain in the bum for us humans, wild weather is scary and not something I like
ReplyDeleteI enjoy rain, but you're right that it can sometimes be a mess. Wild weather can be scary when the wind blows at night.
DeleteRain is a must for the land but often a pain in the bum for us humans, wild weather is scary and not something I like
ReplyDeleteI can imagine how exciting rain is when it comes rarely, but also how frightening the lightning is. Glad the fires that were started are under control.
ReplyDeleteI'm still enjoying Summer and not ready for Fall, but I'm not dealing with your weather!
I haven’t enjoyed this summer at all. This is a first for me. I always enjoy summer, even if it is hotter than snot. It just wasn’t “ my summer” this year, I guess.
DeleteGlad you got your much needed rain but maybe a little too much!
ReplyDeleteWhen it rains, it pours. That’s usually how it ends up here
DeleteThat was the first thing I was wondering.....if the rain came to the Park Fire Area. I'm so glad you had some rain Debby! I smiled when you were talking about it, because us Californians know and appreciate when a good rain comes. How nice that you just sat in your backyard under the patio for awhile. Four hours is a long time to experience rain. I hope we get some up here soon. And when you said, "I'm on my way," I feel it coming too. When I got in my car this morning to get groceries, it was 50 degrees, chilly for sure. Loved your post today, Debby. Thanks for sharing the good news of rain!
ReplyDelete~Sheri
**neat sky picture too.
Oh Sheri it was so nice - I loved every minute of it except for the lightning. The lightning did move on to another area and then it was fine again. We had to give Laydee her anxiety pill. That calmed her down. Gosh I just can’t wait for cooler weather. I’m all excited now! ☔️🍁🍂
DeleteOf COURSE, when you get rain, it will be far away from the fire!!
ReplyDeleteI know! Crazy.
DeleteGlad you received some much needed rain. I was afraid the lightning would cause more fires as that was what happened when we had our last major forest fire here in Michigan. Hopefully the fires will subside soon for you. Janice
ReplyDeleteThe rain was pure joy.
DeleteThe current stubborn fires inch their way to total containment. Probably sometime in September.
We had wind our way yesterday but no signs of rain. My brother had plans to spay weeds out at my moms yesterday but did not because of the wind. Today perfectly calm all day of course!
ReplyDeleteI check daily on Cal Fire to see what percentage of containment the Park fire is at.
I check morning and evening.
DeleteThe unexpected storms of life can cause both relief and consternation, Debby. May autumn come quickly!
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
Amen!
DeleteWhat a wonderful Blessing for you all to receive a much needed rain. However, I know that it must cause a bit of anxiety when lightning is around. Continuing to pray for all of the fires to be totally contained. I sure enjoy the freshness in the air when it rains. I know this was a big relief for you all, with having so much smoke near by. No signs of Fall around here...I am so ready for cooler air and for the first signs of Fall to appear. Happy Monday
ReplyDeleteI can’t complain about the weather. It’s 89 today and cools nicely in the evenings.
DeleteI can imagine how refreshing those raindrops felt....to you, the wildlife and the gardens! And how nice to be able to open the windows and let some of that refreshing air inside. Glad the lightning was not too problematic. I am a summer lover but I do look forward to some of autumn's cooling refreshment:)
ReplyDeleteI like summer usually. But Fall is my favorite season.
DeleteI heard on the news about your crazy rain storm. So sorry the Park fire didn't get any of it though, but the fresh washed air must have been delightful. Thankful the temps are down a bit here in Rocklin too. It sure makes sleeping a bit more easy.
ReplyDeleteHang in there...It's on its way!
Sue
It’s wonderful outside! Looks like it’s supposed to stick around for about a week!
DeleteWow, that was a bad storm you had. Sorry about the fires but glad they are under control. Nothing like some fresh air after a storm. Take care and have a nice week.
ReplyDeleteThat fresh rain aroma is so nice
DeleteTo me, rain is almost always a good thing. Glad it's started raining again but it is a bummer that it wasn't on the fires! Maybe more will head in now. Put those dangerous things out for good. Lightning is very dangerous, like you said. It has caused many deaths and wildfires here in the South. Y'all take care. 💙
ReplyDeleteI’m hoping our Fall/Winter rains will arrive early
DeleteHi, I am always happy to read and hear that California receives much needed rain. Today we have smoke haze that has blown in from the fires. It amazes me how powerful that smoke is... from California to Wisconsin!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the hugs and prayers regarding my post. Thank goodness I have a strong support system and yes, I was able to receive help. My friend Angie stayed with me for awhile when my husband was away.
My concern is he will be released early from prison. He only got 7 years.
Thank you again for the love and prayers.
Carla
Wow that is crazy how the smoke from a California fire will find its way to Wisconsin.
DeleteI thought about that - when he gets out. I hope you’re keeping track.