This series of Haby Hints examines moods that can be created by weather. The emotion in this writing is on edge. “On edge” can be described as a feeling of nervousness, anticipation, tenseness, irrational excitement, irritability, somewhat upset, anxiousness, somewhat afraid, and protective. While any type of weather can bring out any particular emotion in any one person, this writing looks at generalizations of mood the weather can create. The on edge emotion can be brought on by the threat of the negative influences from a storm or storm system. Examples include a risk of severe thunderstorms later in the day, an approaching winter storm that is expected to bring ice and snow, an approaching hurricane, and the passage of a cold front that is expected to bring in bitter cold air. These feelings can send people into actions of preparation that will help them to be ready for the storm. It can create a mood of not being able to concentrate as well on their normal routine, having elevated emotions, and of wanting the latest information. One of the most famous examples of people’s actions when feeling on edge is buying groceries before the approach of a major winter storm (winter storm watch / winter storm warning) in a location that sees winter storm weather infrequently. This is especially true for essentials such as bread. Another example is the buying in the preparation that is done with the approach of a tropical storm or hurricane (hurricane watch / hurricane warning). Supplies such as generators and wood panels are sold quickly. A third example is the preparation for a river flood. Protecting the home and property with sand bags is initiated. Variations of this “on edge” emotion can also occur when there is: 1) a threat for severe thunderstorms (watches / warnings) 2) any big change in the weather 3) winter weather precipitation (especially the first winter weather precipitation of the year) 4) the viewing of a big storm outside, seeing nearby severe weather damage on TV 5) a strong/severe storm occurring, hail occurring 6) heavy snow/freezing rain/ or ice pellets occurring 7) a flash flood watch/warning, heavy rain occurring 8) a rapidly changing air pressure (low pressure approaching) 9) when lightning strikes nearby 10) threat of a big weather change in extended forecast |