A little change in the course of the storm when it hit Nova Scotia brought Earl a few degrees closer to the west coast and the impact was frightening.
In Corner Brook especially, tree-lined streets were left covered by leaves, broken limbs — and in some cases — houses were left broken like egg shells.
The fierceness of what was left of the hurricane when it reached our northern latitudes may indicate what scientists have been predicting may be coming true ... our weather is getting more dangerous. We don’t seem to be getting any more storms than we’re used to but they do seem to cause more damage when they do hit these parts.
We only have to look to the flooding in Stephenville and on the Avalon a few years ago for examples.
If anyone was caught napping over Earl, it should be a good lesson for the next time a warning is raised.
Take it seriously and follow the instructions of the professionals.
The winter months are just around the corner and with that will come blizzards that can often pack a damaging punch equal to any hurricane.
Be prepared to look after yourself and your family until help arrives.
Spending a few hours in your own and your family’s safety is time well invested.
