After the thunderstorm

It is June 20, 2023 and one day before the summer solstice. We just had a storm. A thunderstorm. This occurrence is not so unusual because the country has been experiencing an inordinate amount of consecutively hot weather. Just yesterday, I sought refuge from the heat under these majestic trees.

Hornbeam birch trees

It was inevitable that a storm would ensue. It affected parts of southern England, northern France, Belgium and The Netherlands. It was code orange in most areas of this country– the highest warning level. Luckily, it was only code yellow in Amsterdam.

When the rains came – I wanted to be at home. It poured heavily and steadily. There was lightening, high winds and thunder. It lasted for about 2 hours then it was over. All was dead quiet. As there was no further threat or imminent danger, a friend and I went for a walk.
Oh so green

As we traversed one of my favorite parks in the city, we looked around to ensure that the park was safe. There was negligible to zero debris – caused by the storm.

Main picnic area

If there was a lot of broken branches - we would have cancelled our walk. Safety first.

The greenery in the park was especially beautiful, although the clouds were grey.

The park looked splendid in the evening hue.

Everywhere seemed to glow.

There were only a few people walking their dogs or taking power walks. As we made our rounds, sometimes this was the only "person" in sight.

Soon it began to drizzle but our walk was almost over.
As we were about to depart - "Bob Marley" reminded us that .....

"Some people dance in the rain. Others just get wet."

(It is adviseable to remain indoors if rain is accompanied by a thunderstorm or if there are damaged trees in the aftermath!)

All photos are my own