From My Mind to....

Flood Waters Rise, and A Community Bands Together

As I noted in the Newsfeed earlier today, my hometown of Waynesville, MO have seen the waters from several creeks and rivers surrounding the town rise to levels not seen in more than twenty years. 

As of this time, these streams have not crested, and more rain (sometimes heavy) is expected over the next several days.  The 10 o'clock news stated more than 100 homes were flooded beyond occupancy, and sadly, one death with another person still missing.  Video and images have gone out across the country from at least five different TV news crews.

I really believe folks in such situations do not fear their mortality.  Bad things happen to others, not them.  Please consider how little water it takes to remove traction from the very small surface area on which your four tires reside.  Take into account the fact that the current below the surface is often faster than the surface and you have a recipe for disaster when trying to ford a low-water crossing that is covered by rushing run-off.

To our area's credit, emergency personnel from a dozen communities as far as 100 miles away have rushed to Waynesville to help in this crisis.  Many stories of sacrifice and assistance abound already.

Perhaps Mother Nature will take pity and lessen the anticipated rains tomorrow.  Whatever happens, we will cope, and we will survive.