“Meteorology has ever been an apple of contention, as if the violent commotions in the atmosphere induced a sympathetic effect on the minds of those who have attempted to study them.”~ Joseph Henry “Meteorology in its Connection with Agriculture,”
U.S. Patent Office Annual Report Agricultural, 1858

Three weeks ago, I began writing on weather-predicting history in the U.S. I admittedly became sidetracked along the way with other worthy-to-mention weather particulars. Now, at last, I am back to where I began.

Long before Europeans even dreamed of sailing to North America, Native American people were predicting weather. Their accuracy in doing so then likely exceeded that of now. The changing colors of the sky, the myriad of cloud formations and animal behavior were closely observed. I can relate. Our sons’ Corgi burrows under blankets at the onset of strong winds. Rain alerts come to us as Abby sends the first drops flying while shaking atop the bed. Technology can never replace these basic indicators of weather, although there are many historical highlights in the field of meteorology.

*1835 Modern forecasting begins with the invention of the electric telegraph.

*1861 “The Times” publishes the first daily weather forecast.

*1870 President Grant authorized weather observations at military stations.

*1900 Military uses homing pigeons to carry weather information.

*1936 BBC broadcasts the first televised forecast.

*1960 The first weather satellite, TIROS 1, is launched.

Low pressure is approaching the West Coast today, bringing cool moist air over the foothills. Increasing night to morning low clouds will accompany. Welcome the early onset of “May Grey!”

The forecast includes breezy evenings and overnight hours. Near normal – for springtime – temperatures will likely continue into the first of next week. The timing gets a bit tricky here. Advisory level winds are forecast to kick in, targeting the foothill areas including La Crescenta, within this same time period. Depending on the low pressure’s movement, a chance of light showers becomes a part of the weather-mix.

Watch your dog for current updates!

From a recent conversation with our new neighbors (they moved here from an LA urban area):

I inquired, “So, how are you liking La Crescenta?”

His words, “The view, the sky and the sound of birds – we love it!”

He did admit, though, he wasn’t too sure about the winds “up here.”

Welcome to La Crescenta!

Sue Kilpatrick is a Crescenta Valley resident and Official Skywarn Spotter for the National Weather Service. Reach her at suelkilpatrick@gmail.com.

  Sue Kilpatrick