Go figure

For the third year in a row the Atlantic hurricane season was predicted to be "well above average" in the number of named storms and systems that would form over this quadrant of the planet. Instead it has, yet again, been a below average storm season with 2007-2008 marking a record of inactivity in the Northern Hemisphere not seen in some 30 years.

Now that's three years in a row that they've gotten it dead wrong. Go figure.

I often wonder if dire environmental predictions now serve a societal purpose? Are they just one more thing to add to the color-coded matrix of fear the government and the 24-hour media spin cycle can use to keep us frightened, alarmed and standing by for further developments?

Would anyone dare issue a prediction of a calm storm season these days? I sort of doubt it. It might be seen as an irresponsible act towards the security of the Homeland.

This year many meteorologists are predicting a cold winter, especially in the Northeast and Midwest. With virtually no sunspot activity this past year it seems a certainty, to me mind you, that the planet is entering a period of much cooler weather. I wouldn't bet the house on it ('cause it ain't paid for yet) but I suspect that those of you in places like Michigan and New Hampshire are in for some frigid butts come January. We'll just have to wait and see.