Stop and Smell The Dust!
Ardmore, Oklahoma. Much of Oklahoma is being pummel by high winds and dust. So, I am here in my Element… hunkered down to wait the winds out.
It is a little disappointing to not be shooting today, but it was so clearly the “right call.” This is an amazing experience. The winds shaking & quaking my car back and forth, even up and down. It is great fun to sit here and watch through the window as all Hell breaks loose merely a foot away. Wunderground reports the following advisory:
“Winds were averaging 30 to 40 mph with frequent gusts above 55 mph. The strong winds will continue into the afternoon and dust from West Texas will lower visibilities to below one mile at times…especially across southwest…southern and central Oklahoma and western North Texas. Locally lower visibilities will be likely where the strong winds blow dirt in nearby fields. Drivers should remain alert to rapidly changes visibilities. The strong winds will start to affect northwest Oklahoma as a cold front sweeps across the area. Wind gusts to 60 mph will be possible behind this cold front this afternoon.”
Quintessential, Oklahoma. While writing this entry, visibility has dropped dramatically. Wow!
It is times like these that make me feel lucky that I’m not living life during the pioneer days. Can you imagine what today would be like in a covered-wagon? For one thing, I would not be blogging. For another, my Element would not be enjoying a day at the spa with some much-need rest and an unexpected micro-dermabrasion treatment of sand, dirt and dust; sent compliments of Mother Nature.
Have any of you ever taken time out to stop and smell the dust?