June 7, 2009 - I've often thought it would be "cool" to see a tornado in person. The crazy storm footage on the news or some show on the discovery channel always make them look so fascinating. Peaceful from a distance and so chaotic up close. Apparently there are plenty who share this fascination or a term like "storm chaser" would not exist. While I've never been inclined to actually chase after a storm, I've maintained a desire to see one from a distance. Wish granted!
On June 7th, 2009 the boys and I were finishing some yard work in the backyard trying to beat the rain that appeared to be rolling in. The first drops had begun to fall so it was a scramble to put away the tools and clean up as quick as we could. As we finished up and came through the gate, we were greeted by several of our neighbors walking down the street toward our house pointing to the western sky. I turned to see what the fuss was about just as the words they kept repeating finally registered - Tornado... Sure enough, there it was! A very long and thin strand of wind reaching down from clouds to touch the ground. From our vantage point approximately 3 miles southeast, it was almost serene. Tornadoes don't dart across the horizon like a shooting star and the constant bending and swaying motion almost looks like a dance. We were all transfixed and could not stop staring at it as it changed shape and glided to the south. Only as the rain and hail began to fall in earnest did it begin to occur to me that we may need to seek shelter. In hindsight, I realize this should have dawned on me much sooner, but the threat seemed so distant at the time.
We all stood and watched the funnel ride it's course and ultimately return to the sky, but it's something that none of us will forget for some time. Thankfully, no one was hurt by this particular tornado and damage was minimal since it hit a relatively rural area.
Enjoy these photos ALL TAKEN FROM OUR FRONT YARD!
