Storm Eowyn Hits Plymouth: A Wild Ride and Lessons Learned
Okay, so, "Storm Eowyn." That name alone sounds like something straight out of a fantasy novel, right? Well, let me tell you, it felt pretty epic when it hit Plymouth. I mean, epic in the way that involves a lot of frantic cleaning, near-misses with flying debris, and the distinct feeling that you might actually get blown away.
This wasn't your average, "a bit of wind and rain" type of storm. Nope. This was a full-blown, weather-bomb situation. The kind where you're glued to the news, nervously checking the wind speeds every five minutes, and wondering if you should have invested in a stronger shed. I'll never forget that bone-chilling wind. It howled like a banshee all night.
The Night the Shed Almost Flew Away
I remember that night vividly. It started with a pretty typical, albeit slightly windy, evening. Then, things escalated quickly. The wind picked up, and I mean really picked up. I was watching TV, and suddenly, boom, a huge gust rattled the windows so hard I jumped out of my skin. I looked out and saw my neighbor's garden furniture doing the fandango across their lawn. Honestly, it was a bit terrifying. It was like a scene from a disaster movie. I ran around securing things. At one point, I thought my shed, my precious, lovingly built shed (which contained all my gardening tools and that prize-winning pumpkin), was going to take flight. I practically wrestled it back down, securing it with ropes and anything else I could grab. It was exhausting and a bit ridiculous, honestly. I seriously thought I was in a Lord of the Rings movie!
Practical Tips for Surviving a "Storm Eowyn" (or any seriously bad weather):
So, what did I learn? A few things, actually. And I'm sharing them with you to save you the stress (and maybe some lost garden gnomes).
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Secure loose objects: This seems obvious, but I was amazed at how much stuff could become airborne. Seriously, weigh down anything that’s even slightly loose. Think heavy flower pots, outdoor furniture, garbage cans—even your mailbox can become a flying projectile.
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Trim trees and bushes: You’ve heard this before, I’m sure. Overhanging branches can cause a real problem in strong winds, leading to property damage and power outages. Don’t let those become deadly weapons. It’s important to do it regularly, and don't underestimate the power of nature. It really, really bites.
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Check your roof and gutters: Before a storm hits, check the integrity of your roof and clear out your gutters. Clogged gutters can add weight and increase the risk of water damage during heavy rain. A good clean-out is super crucial; it makes a difference. Think of it as a bit of pre-storm maintenance.
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Have a plan: Know where you're going to go if you need to evacuate. I live in a fairly well-built house, but there is safety in planning. It is important. Have a plan for the family. What to do. Where to go. Who to contact. It's surprisingly easy to feel helpless during a storm. Having a plan helps immensely.
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Charge your devices: This is crucial. Power outages are common during severe storms. Make sure your phones, laptops, and other devices are fully charged. I learned that the hard way during Storm Eowyn, which caused a local power outage. Having charged devices can really save the day.
The Aftermath:
After Storm Eowyn finally passed, the damage was considerable. There were fallen trees, power lines down, and several properties sustained damage. My shed survived, although it did get a bit of a beating. The whole experience, though stressful, was definitely memorable. It was a lesson in the raw power of nature and the importance of preparation. And honestly? It also made me appreciate a warm, dry house that much more.
So, there you have it. My tale of Storm Eowyn and the valuable lessons I learned. Let’s hope for milder weather in the future, but knowing what to do is never a bad idea!