Ma Nature issues another warning

She’s clearly on your side. This gentle reminder that you need to be prepared for: Other Than The Usual was relatively kind.

Granted, at a measured 74mph, the wind in Missoula on August 10th actually qualified as a Force 11 on The Beaufort Wind Force Scale, officially called “hurricane force”.

While at the lower edge of that hurricane rating, it did significant damage, but without reported loss of life or serious structural damage. However, as you might guess, replacing heavy-duty transmission lines will take more than a little time.

What did we learn? What was her message to us?

Those silly Preppers keep harping on community preparedness and working together instead of betting your being on official responders. Well, as it turns out, even this little blip required community response.

The phones kept working. That won’t always happen in an emergency. BUT, the 911 center was overwhelmed. Many people reported constant busy signals. What got through between 6 and 11 p.m. Monday were 700 emergency calls initiating 500 calls for service, a volume that strapped responders and forced them to triage priorities. More than 300 calls rang in between 7 and 8 p.m. alone.

One neighborhood in desperation put a fire out themselves. Well say “Halleluja” brothers and sisters. THAT is what you have to do in the real world of emergency services. I’m so glad you woke up rather than watch the show.

There was no earthquake. There were no ruptured water, sewer or gas lines. There were no major fires. Do you have any idea how much worse disasters can get?

Local water companies have functioning generators to continue the fresh water deliveries to everyone in the area… except those on their own wells. Some of them have generators or Plan B, but many don’t. Maybe they will next time.

People found trees across roadways in their paths. A few cars would back up, but along would come a local or one of those silly preppers who carry a chainsaw in their vehicle to clear the obstruction so all could get on their way.

We lost electrical power for four hours. Some around here for a day. That’s also no running water for most of us. No big deal if you have alternatives. If it was a big deal this time, or would be if it happens to you, FIX THAT while it is easy to fix.

What if you can’t cook normally?
What if your fridge does not run?
What if the store doesn’t get resupplied soon?
What if it is cold?
What if the water doesn’t run?

Some wait.
Some call for help.
Some rise to the occasion.
Some are prepared for the unusual.
What could go wrong? And how are you prepared to deal with it?