It has been memorably noted, at least since the late 19th century, that “Everybody complains about the weather, but nobody does anything about it.” Some attribute that remark — in varying forms — to Mark Twain, others to a newspaper editor.
Whoever said it, it remains true — not that anybody really can do much about the weather, beyond prepare for it.
In Chattanooga, of course, we are blessed with a relatively mild climate. Our summers are hot and humid, but usually not terribly so. Our winters may bring a bit of snow and ice, but it’s typically not overwhelming and it ordinarily doesn’t last long. And spring and fall can be sheer delights in this area.
It is notable, however, that 2011 has produced the highest number on record of weather disasters causing at least $1 billion in damage in the United States. There have been a dozen billion-dollar-or-more disasters related to snow, drought, wildfires, tornadoes and such this year. We sadly recall the April tornado outbreak that claimed scores of lives in this region.
The tragic weather disasters of 2011 should be kept in perspective, however.