Last night I was at a very nice dinner party with a few girlfriends in the city. Early in the evening all of our husbands called to warn us of the horrendous storm that was going through, and to assure us the the kids were all ok. The storm came and went as we enjoyed delicious salads, mojitos, and wine.
The evening was coming to an end and we all decided the weather was clear enough to make our way back to the burbs. We exchanged hugs and remarked that there was just a light drizzle falling from the skies. I was driving my friend Jamie and about seven steps from the front door the rain began to drop heavily. We ran to the car about half a block down the street and where absolutely drenched by the time we slammed the car doors shut.
Despite hearing the directions about a dozen times on how to get back to 55, I still made a wrong turn in the crazy weather. Now at this point, I could barely see the road in front of me and the wind was blowing the rain in all sorts of random directions. Thankfully, we quickly found our way onto 55.
OK. So now I’m on the highway, can’t see the road, any cars in front or behind me, can’t really even see my own headlights. The wind was blowing so fiercely, we seriously think we’re in a tornado. I crept my way along until we get to a bridge. We took cover for a while, hoping the storm will pass. Many minutes go by and there is no end in sight. We don’t really know what to do. Attempt to drive to the next bridge? Continue to wait? I just want to get home and don’t feel terribly comfortable hanging out on the side of the highway.
The decision is made to get out from under cover and see what is ahead of us. Turns out the rain had only started to come down harder and heavier. I literally could not see in front of me. I worked so hard to attempt to see each white lane divider, so I could be reassured I’m still in my lane. I could only faintly see the lights of the cars in front and behind me. Every vehicle at that late hour had their emergency lights flashing and was going about 15 miles per hour.
I’ve never really understood the phrase “sheets of rain” until last night. Sheet after sheet of water continuously violently hitting my car. The road was starting to flood in several places and at one point I hydroplaned a good ten yards or so.
Slowly we continued homeward. Then it stopped. Just like that. I turned my wipers down and we quickly proceeded the rest of the way home. It was the most bizarre, scary, strange driving experience I’ve had. I’m glad it’s over and I’m glad Jamie was there to get through it with me.
I know our little kids got extra smooches when we finally arrived in our safe, dry houses!
