Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Storms

Sometimes we have to be careful what we wish for! Three days ago I posted a blog saying I was so excited about the upcoming cold front and the rainy weather. And while I still like the cold and I still like rain …I’m thinking we have a little too much of both right now.

The temperature in Torrance right now is 55 degrees, but because there is a storm and the winds are blowing … it feels more like 45 degrees. What’s worse the inside our home is always 5 degrees cooler than the outside (which is great in the summer but not so great in the winter) so it’s really more like 40 degrees. Brrr! And it’s so dark (storm clouds all around and occasional thunder and lighting). It’s 3:30 pm and it looks like nighttime outside. I am alone right now and I have the tv blaring in the living room, all the lights turned on, and the Ipod on speakers in my office. I have the heater turned on and am attempting to keep my hands warm by wearing gloves indoors. FYI - wearing gloves while typing is certainly challenging.

Earlier, I was watching the news and the situation is not so good. Southern California was hit by Storm Number 1 the day before yesterday. Storm Number 2 is here today and scheduled to really hit hard tonight. And Storm Number 3 is coming tomorrow. Yes, that’s right, 3 storms this week. Many parts of LA county, Orange County and the Inland Empire are flooded. Areas that had forest fires last summer are now experiencing flash floods and mudslides. Several communities have lost power. All beaches, piers and docks are closed. Hail is coming down in many areas. Evacuation announcements have been going on all morning. Many schools and offices have let people go home early. There are talks of possible small tornadoes occurring. It’s very surreal since I am used to seeing typhoons in Manila but have never experienced a storm in LA. It’s kinda scary and sad too.

I just hope things get better before they get any worse.


Flooding along one of the local streets in Long Beach.

The waves pounding the boardwalk at Ventura Pier.

LAPD officer going door to door in La Canada ordering people to evacuate.

Photos courtesy of the KTLA-News website.

2 comments:

Auntie Lillian said...

Hi Joanne, Northern California has also been hit by the storms. A lot of side streets are flooded due to poor drainage. Our bathroom carpet is wet - we don't know if it is seeping from the concrete underneath it. It rained off and on today with accompanying high winds. Weathermen say we might have a break this weekend to be followed by more rain. Too many people praying for rain , I guess.
Well, you keep dry and warm. Advanced Happy Birthday - enjoy it with style and fun.

joyeee said...

wow, didnt know it was that serious... better be careful there dets!~ Ready your umbrellas and rain coats! Just incase, stock up on some food too:) Happy Happy Birthday again!