As I watched a storm pummel CSUN campus last Wednesday from the third floor of Manzanita Hall, I noticed a unique scenario playing out below. Swaths of umbrellas weaved in and out of buildings and across campus. A far cry from the usual t-shirts, sandals and jeans we are accustomed to.
Describing the series of storms last week as a good soaking would be a serious understatement. By the end of Wednesday’s storm five inches had already drenched most of Southern California. Residents of the Station Fire burn areas were fearing the worst as Mother Nature showed no mercy. Floods, winds and tornadoes disrupted Angelenos’ commutes and workdays from Huntington Beach to Ventura. I guess it’s to be expected in L.A. when a harmless drizzle can cause most drivers to set their windshield wipers to hyper speed and brake lights become the dominant trend on the road.
It would have been nice if these storms spanned three weeks instead of five days. But we must not forget that L.A. is a desert and we will gladly take what rain we can get, even if that means the threat of mudslides, floods and violent winds.
The inconvenient and immediate results of storms such as these take a back seat to the long-term results they offer. Lush conditions will ensue and should prevent this sprawling desert metropolis from being parched in the summertime.
And for those of you who aren’t affected by the threat of mudslides and flooding there is plenty to do during these rainstorms. For instance, cooking and being creative in the kitchen is excellent way to pass time indoors during the storms. Invite some friends over and play some cards or enjoy a game of Monopoly, Battleship or Yatzhee. It’s a great time to catch up with friends or family. You can also use the time for homework. At least you won’t be distracted by 78 degrees and sunny skies that spoil us the majority of the year.
If the indoor suggestions don’t sound to exciting how about a trip to the local mountain for some skiing, snowboarding or tubing? Local ski resorts such as Snow Summit, Mt. Baldy and Mountain High have received two to four feet from these storms and they are all within a three-hour drive.
Try and make the most when you’re stuck indoors during the rain. Hit the slopes if that’s your fix. Enjoy the afterglow and clean air following these storms because it isn’t going to last long. Before we know it we will be hearing meteorologists and environmentalists praying for rain because we haven’t seen a drop in six months.
