Wonky Weather

Torrential rains have fallen over California over the past few days. Tonight is to bring up to ten inches (25cm) of rain (the harshest period of the storm yet). Though I cannot really make comments about the weather as I have very little control over the subject and usually it is considered dull conversation, I still have several questions related to the topic.

1) Why does rain fall while I am not there? I love the rain and I am a little disappointed to be missing it.

2) There are many mudslides, particularly in Southern California, which largely endanger expensive homes along the Pacific Coast Highway. Though these homes are located on a hillside and many overlook the Pacific Ocean, meaning highly prized property, why were they ever allowed to be built in the first place? As a taxpayer whose taxes go into emergency funds that have, in previous serious storm situations been paid out to mudslide residents, I am curious why the land was ever approved for residential use. If the land is not stable to build on, why are tax payers helping with the costs of repairs?

3) With unprecedented weather in other areas of the world (Europe) where are the discussions of climate change? Though this can be a completely natural global occurrence, I believe that this is a prime time for advocates to come forward and be vocal.

One last note, in the article about mudslides the seriousness of this storm really hits home. My hometown lost a little boy in a rain induced auto accident. Though I love the rain, I hope these next hours of downpour are safely enjoyed.

~PB