Some individuals are attracted to social media applications – I am more drawn to weather applications. I tend to check weather apps more frequently than news apps because they are usually less alarming. This holds true even during tornado season.
It may sound like boasting, but I am well-informed about the projected highs, lows, and chances of rain for the next five days in three different states. For me, it’s a budget-friendly way to travel.
Earlier today, I was virtually exploring the rocky coast of Maine, where the weather was 65 degrees with partial sun. After refilling my coffee, I virtually visited Charleston, South Carolina, where it was scorching by mid-afternoon. From there, I virtually traveled to the boundary waters of northern Minnesota – definitely jacket weather.
I make it a habit to check the weather app every night before going to bed. This way, I can anticipate any upcoming storms and open a window to enjoy the sound of rain, wind, and thunder.
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My daily ritual includes checking the weather app in the morning to plan my outfit and anticipate the type of hair day I’ll have.
If my partner wants to know the local three-day forecast, he turns to me instead of his phone. I can provide him with past, current, and future temperature information, as well as advice on watering the garden.
Back in my childhood, people would call the bank to get weather updates. Nearly every town had a bank with a recorded line that shared the time and temperature. However, no one would check it as frequently as we check weather apps today.
Years ago, those who were serious about the weather would have a barometer on their wall, often above the television. Back then, discussing the weather was considered a form of entertainment before platforms like Netflix and Disney+ existed.
For some, a barometer was like a crystal ball. Those who understood how to interpret it could predict an incoming storm even before it arrived. These individuals later came together and formed the Weather Channel.
One of the most delightful aspects of summer is the colorful descriptions used to characterize it. You can “sweat bullets,” “sweat buckets,” or “sweat like a pig,” even though pigs don’t actually sweat. Summer offers a variety of ways to describe the heat.
During extremely humid days, my father-in-law used to say, “It’s close today.” At first, I was puzzled by what he felt was closing in on us. However, after spending a week in the family’s century-old home during a hot summer with only window fans for cooling, I understood his reference.
It was his way of saying, “It’s not the heat – it’s the humidity.”
A phrase that I believe should be eradicated forever, under the threat of having your weather app disabled, is: “Is it hot enough for you?” If you feel the need to ask this question, you likely already know the answer.
When the heat is unbearable and even your weather app seems to be melting, remember that winter will return sooner than expected.
Lori Borgman is a recognized columnist, author, and speaker. Her latest book, “What Happens at Grandma’s Stays at Grandma’s,” is now available. Contact her via email at lori@loriborgman.com.
