Opinion - It is brutal outside

Weather prediction is a chancy affair. Any number of methods and computer models are used to see into the future. Satellites, too, give an unprecedented look at Earth and its weather patterns.

Weather prediction has become a sophisticated science, much too sophisticated to rely upon old folklore. The length of the fuzz on a wooly caterpillar and winter preparations of some animals have been used for eons to foretell the coming weather.

It is hard to tell what methods are the most accurate.

This year's scientific long-range weather predictions are still unsettled. Some forecast the winter to be colder and wetter than normal. Yet, the Farmers Almanac takes exception, predicting a normal winter. One prediction calls for a mild winter with this current cold spell being the worst of it.

Actually, all the talk about the coming winter may be a bit premature, we still have to survive fall. Winter doesn't officially hit until just before Christmas.

The last few days have brought record low temperatures and enough snowfall to close roads and schools. Flights out of Spokane International have been cancelled, and some travel plans for the Thanksgiving weekend have been altered, so have some local travel plans, what with slide offs and vehicles that won't start because of the cold.

These conditions demand the use of all public resources. State, county and municipal services are out in force trying to make travel safe. They deserve credit and thanks. It is brutal. Such conditions can be life threatening.

Public services, of course, cannot do everything. Individuals must take responsibility for themselves, too. And, individuals need to look after those who may not be able to protect themselves.

Those in need could be on the road or just next door.

Gordon Forgey

Publisher