The first of two installments
The sudden howling of the wind, and the torrential downpour of rain spiced with hail seizes our attention. Visiting interrupted, the five of us push back our chairs and rush to the window to watch in amazement.
“Was this forecast?” I demand. Having just arrived in Edmonton, I feel it’s a fair question. My friends deny any previous knowledge of this wild weather. Our host hurries into the next room and turns on the radio, TV and computer. All sources blare forth the same message.
“Tornado Warning!” Seek shelter immediately. Do not leave your present location until an ‘All Clear’ is issued.”
My tablemates and I stand at the window, watching the swirling gusts of wind pick up anything loose and fling it aloft. A child’s jacket, a large cardboard box, and a garden tool all fly by. We watch with sympathy as a crow, battered by the wild wind, struggles to escape the storm’s grasp. My mind protests, “This is my vacation.” Continue reading