Extreme Rain Extreme Drought

The ebb and flow of South Florida weather varies from extreme rains to extreme drought. Within just several months our water index level has surpassed the drought reading and continues to rise. South Florida Water Management, our local government agency, recorded Lake Okeechobee at 14.93 feet. I am not surprised at the rising levels as the rains continue to keep us inside. Still the Osprey gently waiting out the rains. Gracefully with a bowed head, the raptor awaits for a weather break or even the morning when the fishing will be best.

As a young girl I can remember listening to the same pounding drops hit the roof, the grass, the asphalt, the car. The rains cometh and sometimes not. Climate change has prevented the normal storms through a rainy season. Thunder storms, tropical weather warnings-all are normal summertime memories. Ironically enough, all the efforts put forth to drain the Everglades for man dominating over nature is now the continual focus of reversal in hopes of preserving the endangered wetlands. 10,000 Islands of wetlands that tourists flock to, scientists study, and politicians avoid. My home is among all these islands. I simply hope to understand this place I call my home before the opportunity passes.