First Snow

Kind of dreary, isn’t it?

This was the view out the back door of our office building on Tuesday. Snow was falling. The roads were slick. Schools were closed.

I’ve not seen official snowfall totals, but at my house I measured 9″ of the white stuff piled up.

Along with the snow, the temperatures dropped to -9F one morning. That should fit anyone’s definition of cold.

- Dan

Many of the scars from that event are healed. New houses have been built where some were destroyed. Others have been repaired.

Some businesses have emerged in their same locations, while others have not.

We are forced to be aware of the impact the weather can have on us. Kansans know it can go from sunshine to stormy and dangerous in just a few short minutes. We need to be prepared.

This morning I heard Capt. Kurt Moldrup of the Riley County Police Department on the radio sharing about some of the things they had learned from the events of last year. His comments were focused on response in the midst of chaos. It’s good to know that law enforcement is continually working to improve response.

If you are new to Riley County, or are planning to move here, or have lived here all your life, you really should take some time to prepare for the inevitable weather events.

1. Get yourself a weather radio.
2. Know where to go if a tornado is headed your way.
3. Plan for the family to meet somewhere if you get separated.
4. Ensure that important documents are stored in a safe location.

But, don’t let the possibility of dangerous weather deter you. Riley County is a great place. Just be prepared.

Take care, and hang on to your hat!

- Dan

Sometimes they come with monstrous thunderstorms. Sometimes they are gully-washers (or frog-stranglers) Sometimes they come with little thunder and lightening. Sometimes the rain comes down much slower and soaks in.

Last night was one of those slower, less-violent rains. The rain gauge at my house showed about 1″. Folks down in the southeast part of the state had the more severe weather.

All of the tell-tale signs of a spring rain were evident this morning…

• Normally dry creeks had water flowing.
• Buds from the trees were stuck to my pickup.
• The air had a fresh smell.
• Water was standing in ditches.
• The yard looked much greener this morning than it did yesterday.

But, the spring rain is only a warning of potential for dangerous weather, including large hail or even tornadoes.

I guess now would be a good time to purchase a weather radio!

- Dan