Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

As the saying goes, into every life some rain must fall. Moderate rain is good. It makes flowers, trees, and crops grow. It keeps streams and wells filled and helps mitigate risks of wildfires. Even thunderstorms have benefits. Electrical charges associated with lightning help produce the nitrogen necessary for fertile soil. 

Sometimes storms become dangerous. Hurricanes are arguably the most destructive of nature’s tantrums. The Atlantic hurricane season officially kicks off on June 1 and runs through November 30. To help focus attention on the need for readiness, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) annually sponsors National Hurricane Preparedness Week (this year May 4-10).

According to NOAA data, an average year sees 14 tropical storms in the Atlantic and adjacent waters. Approximately half become hurricanes. To form, a hurricane needs a weather disturbance and water temperatures of nearly 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26.5 Celsius). One of the concerns related to rising sea surface temperatures is the increased likelihood of severe storms. Last year, there were 18 named storms in the Atlantic basin, 11 of which became hurricanes. Climate-related research is vital for understanding storm development and predicting each storm’s probable intensity and path so that appropriate and timely warnings can be issued.

Preparing for a hurricane season starts with understanding local risks. Storm surge and rip currents may impact coastal areas, but Farmville sits 150 miles from the shore. We’re concerned with wind damage, heavy rain, flooding, and the tornadoes that hurricanes sometimes spawn. To be ready for these, NOAA recommends tending to home improvements, trimming trees, learning potential flood-related evacuation routes, making provisions for the safety of pets, and developing a communications plan for staying in touch with your family. Other suggestions include making a written list of emergency contacts in case phone and internet service is disrupted, keeping at least three days worth of food and water on hand in case you need to shelter in place, and having batteries (or other means of charging devices) on hand for mobile phones, flashlights, radios, and other electronic equipment. 

The National Weather Service (part of NOAA) issues forecasts and produces alerts when hazardous weather is approaching. You can stay up-to-date at weather.gov (enter your city or zip code for local information). “Watches” related to tropical storms, hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes mean that the development or impact of these events is possible within the watch area. “Warnings” mean that conditions are expected or actually happening. Recently, contract lapses have eliminated the practice of translating these alerts for non-English speakers. If you are able, passing along vital warning information to people who speak other languages can be life saving.

Another source of information about the development and movement of tropical storm systems is the National Hurricane Center (nhc.noaa.gov). It works to save lives and mitigate property loss through research and the analysis of hazardous tropical weather systems and by helping people understand related risks. You’ve probably seen images in the news that depict cone-like shapes describing potential storm paths. They are developed by this Center.

But, sometimes the storms that blow through our lives are not literal. Metaphoric storms can include the turmoil associated with unemployment, accidents, illnesses, broken relationships, financial difficulties, anxiety, and stress. Because these kinds of storms can also wreak havoc, it seems appropriate to recognize that May is also Mental Health Awareness Month.

The National Alliance on Mental Health (nami.org), Mental Health America (mhanational.org), and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA.gov) are three organizations that promote mental wellness. They offer resources for people who are struggling and for people who are concerned about their loved ones. Maintaining social connections with family and friends is one way to help protect those facing mental and emotional tempests. Some tips for developing resilience in the face of these storms include practicing thankfulness, volunteering to help others, and engaging in acts of kindness or compassion. 

Whether the storms that come are literal or metaphoric, whether the rain drops in by surprise or come after ominous warnings, it’s good to be prepared. When rough conditions arrive, don’t be afraid to offer help if you can, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

Karen Bellenir has been writing for The Farmville Herald since 2009. Her book, Happy to Be Here: A Transplant Takes Root in Farmville, Virginia features a compilation of her columns. It is available from PierPress.com. You can contact Karen at kbellenir@PierPress.com.