The Great Dismal Swamp, mostly known to the people of southeastern Virginia and the outer banks of North Carolina or to those who know the history of the Underground Railroad, is smoldering out of control. Started by a lightning strike a few weeks ago, the fire has consumed well over 6,000 acres and can only be extinguished with about six or so inches of rainfall, which can only be achieved with a tropical storm in these parts. Today we have a RED alert, which means the air quality is unhealthy. No kidding! There have been swamp fires before, but this is the worst in the 24 years we have been in Virginia. Even the dogs want to stay inside.
Be careful. You might just get what you wish for. Enter Irene.
If all goes as predicted, Irene will pass uncomfortably close to Norfolk. We are most fortunate in that most hurricanes which come our way, usually strike the Outer Banks first and are subsequently weakened. However, the last Category 2 to hit us was Isabel and there was considerable damage. Our home is a century-old sturdy brick structure and we were spared serious damage, but we were without electricity for 8 days. Thus far, we are in the 'cone of uncertainty' for Irene. The forecast could get much better or far worse. Either way we should get significant rainfall. If there is a silver lining, it will be that at least we can breathe healthier air.
P.S. Sure wish we were in Mérida.
Images from Weather Underground and Virginian Pilot
Good luck, stock up on water, candles, lanterns, ice and gas for the BBQ. Last ice storm we were without power for more than 5 days. I learned how to make coffee on the grill, as well as other things!
ReplyDeleteI hope everything goes all right for you guys and you can at least stay online! Let us know how you're doing.
ReplyDeleteThanks. I believe we are ready. Well, we're never ready for a hurricane, but I think we have what we need. Will most likely lose power for a few days, and pump water out of the basement. All part of coastal Virginia living.
ReplyDeleteHopefully, the Verizon towers will not be damaged, and I can post briefly on my laptop using the air card. Maybe it will finally be worth the ridiculous monthly charge.
ReplyDeleteHey guys how goes it? How did you all fare after the storm..I mean hurricane! We were watching all weekend from hot and dry Atlanta... Come on Irene a little rain couldn't have hurt!
ReplyDeleteHola Darren y Wade. We were really lucky here as far as damages go. We got over 10 inches of rain and that was still not enough to put out the swamp fires!! Sorry you couldn't get a little of the rain. When are you guys going back to Merida?
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