There was a time that talking about the weather was sure to break the conversational ice at a get-together. Now it might be wise to avoid this subject, as well as the usual uncomfortable topics, such as politics and religion. Just try it and see.
Someone you may have counted on to make a little small talk may go on and on; blaming other people for the extreme weather changes. The terms Polar Vortex and Atmospheric are used more commonly now. The weather reports on television and on social media are often dire. Forecasters predict the future conditions in localities all over the state in equally negative terms, producing fear and anxiety.
Checking the weather a number of times before going outside has always been an indication of aging. The youngest among us aren’t interested, which can be demonstrated by the common behavior of shedding their outer layers as they get out of sight of the adults in charge. There are increasing numbers of kids who go to school in the chilliest weather without heavy jackets. Check out any schoolyard or playground and you will notice lots of kids in shorts and no hats, scarves, or mittens, as well.
While weather forecasters report unusually severe winter weather appearing for the first time in more temperate climates, they are also noting drastic shifts in the kinds of weather patterns due to climate change. Given that the more unscientific among us are refusing to recognize this phenomenon, a previously mundane comment about the weather can turn into an incendiary, verbal conflagration.
Weather is no longer a subject to take lightly. Comments on the amount of precipitation or the lack of it are best left unsaid. The old question, “How do you like this weather?” cannot be uttered out in public either. Weather watchers all, opinions on other people’s opinions just won’t work anymore.
By Dolly Viscardi
