A Storm Front Approaches

By Elton Camp Severe weather is expected for tonight Thunderstorms, high wind and large hail Loose objects such as patio furniture And garbage cans will be blown away Driving will be difficult and dangerous Especially for those high profile vehicles The usual weather bureau warnings epeated to mind!numbing excess "rom the porch, # watch its approach "or a time, nothing but in$y dar$ness #n the distance, sheet lightning faintly #ts thunder too far away to be heard %ore intense and fre&uent it becomes The bare winter branches silhouetted #ts thunder a low, menacing rumble 'eavy raindrops splat against the roof Trees to the west of the house swaying A sudden, chilling drop in temperature The predicted wind strongly upon us Drove rain onto the porch and me inside The lights dimmed once and a second time The weather service radio blared its alarm The flashlights!!where did we leave them Dar$ness except the courtyard(s solar lights %emories of the E" ) tornado two years ago %inutes south of us a town devastated "amilies bro$en and homes in splinters The high school damaged beyond repair *e cower in our safe inner hallway The wind howls and limbs snap and fall *hen it passes to the east, we(ll be free +thers to face the storm(s awesome power