Back in the days before "climate change" entered our vocabulary, rain was generally a negative development. While most of us enjoyed the patter of rain on our roofs when we were safely indoors or relished an occasional walk in the rain (if garbed in foul weather gear), rain often interfered with outdoor activities, cancelled sporting events and ruined festivals, picnics or concerts.
These days, however, rain is generally a gift, especially in drought-plagued areas. Here in central Missouri, an overnight rain was more than welcome, recharging streams that have been sluggish for months. Indeed, much of the Mississippi River watershed remains in drought mode and low river levels have hampered vital barge traffic.
Of course, global warming has and will bring excessive rain to some coastal regions and will fuel strong thunderstorms across most of the country. But steady, nourishing rain will likely be welcomed in many areas and, when it occurs, will be greatly appreciated.
