Much we can be thankful for in Tuesday's storm

When it rains, it pours.

You can say that again.

Believe it or not, McCook is officially still slightly behind normal precipitation for the year —9.51 inches since Jan. 1 compared to a normal 10.10 — but Mother Nature did her best to help us catch up.

Officially, McCook received 2.58 inches of rain Tuesday, but unofficial amounts ranged to 5 inches or more, two inches of it falling in one hour, starting at about 8 p.m.

High winds blew down a lot of limbs and left at least one part of McCook without power for a few hours, but we’re always amazed at how quickly NPPD crews are able to find the trouble and turn the power back on.

The same can be said for city crews who were out in the storm doing what they could to keep citizens safe, clearing streets and blocking flooded sections like Barnett Park and part of Kelley Park, not to mention first responders who answered at least one ambulance call during the storm as well.

A cruise down South Street provided a view that reminded one of the old pictures from the 1935 Republican River flood, albeit certainly at a smaller scale.

We’re also thankful there was no hail here, nor tornadoes that struck other areas. The rain was very welcome, despite arriving so quickly.

And, thankfully, we had plenty of warning about Tuesday’s approaching storm, and few were caught unaware.

It was a good reminder, especially this time of the year, to stay aware of the forecast before venturing outside for those many fun summertime activities.