Sunday, December 15, 2013
Wrong warning
I've been walking daily for two years now. Started in mid-Dec 2011. During those two years, I've always tried to make the usual loop. Exactly three times I've had to short-circuit the expedition immediately after leaving the house. Once because of extreme wind that was dropping trees and branches; twice because of a much more subtle weather phenomenon. Freezing fog doesn't damage houses, doesn't interfere with most normal activities, but it makes walking and bicycling impossible. Yesterday was one of those freezing-fog days, which is why the subject comes to mind just now.
The Weather Bureau doesn't give any warnings or watches for this phenomenon. Last week they put out a Warning for Wind Chill, which is completely pointless.
Think about it. Who is likely to need a Wind Chill Warning? People who walk, bike and work outside. Who is likely to need a Freezing Fog Warning? People who walk, bike and work outside. And which of these phenomena can cause serious problems if you're not warned? Freezing fog.
Wind chill is self-notifying. You know it's Goddamn Cold as soon as you open the door, and you can dress and act accordingly.
Freezing fog is not self-notifying. It looks like slight dampness on the street. You proceed as usual... Oh boy! Walking! My favorite! Not too cold, not too ....AAAAAAAAA!
¶ 4:51 AM 
¶ 4:51 AM
