A Bubble Off Plumb

We as a people are tired. We’re worn out and jaded from an overload of news, most of it bad. We’re tired of staying home to stay safe and just want to get back to the old normal. Nobody likes the ‘new normal.’

So, Mother Nature has decided to send us all a little slice of normal in the form of a hurricane. Gee, thanks.

By the time this hits the streets, Hannah will have done what she is going to do in Caddo County. Probably most of it will be rain, a lot of rain. There may be some localized flooding, some crops may be damaged or destroyed. But, harkening back to

But, harkening back to the old normal, there are some things to remember. Water coming over the road can kill you. It may sweep your vehicle away, there could be obstructions like a tree or other debris in there that can cause you to get stuck in the waterway, helpless in the face of rising water. There could be a section of the road washed out and there is no way to know that when entering water too deep to see through. Even if none of these situations exist, water could enter your engine compartment and damage your vehicle. Unless you are fleeing

Unless you are fleeing floodwaters and there is no way around, don’t risk entering water over the road.

Even at home there could be dangers. Critters can be flooded out of their homes, including venomous snakes seeking high ground. Power lines could be down and water can infiltrate wells or sewer systems. Keep an eye out for these kinds of dangers until well after the storm has gone.

Even then, there could be road damage and waterways – creeks and rivers – will be carrying an extra load of stormwater. In a few days the storm will be just a memory, but those waterways will still be a draw for children, especially. They will remain a danger for weeks and children should be reminded to avoid them until things – like stormwater – return to the new old normal.

Connie Burcham can be reached at Editor@WatongaRepublican.com