Like many in Santa Barbara, Montecito, Ventura, around the country, and around the world, I have been personally affected by the increase in natural disasters occurring as a result of human impact on the Earth and climate-related changes. Like many, my family and I were evacuated because of a concern that heavy rains would cause dangerous mudslides and debris flow as happened last year following the Thomas Fire in my beloved hometown. The most recent January storm of this year wasn’t as severe as officials expected. The evacuation lasted from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. the same day, January 15. We had booked into a hotel, where we stayed for the evening, returning home the following morning.
While most were pleased to return home after eight hours away, some residents felt inconvenienced by the unnecessary evaluation. After all, an evacuation typically incurs an unexpected expense of money and time. However, I would encourage people to look at situations like this as a rehearsal or drill. I am deeply appreciative for the thoughtfulness of the emergency officers who worked so hard to keep us safe, allowing us to return home only once the danger subsided.
Be patient. When a situation does not result in a disaster, it is a blessing.