Summer in the Clouds

July 4th was the first day of sun in this soggy New England summer.

June 25th was my last day of eighth grade. Students everywhere across Manchester were in high spirits, just awaiting the final bell.  Not a single 8th grader in my class could wait for summer but honestly, even though school is out, it does not feel anything like summer.  The rain just keeps pouring down.

For the past two weeks in Manchester, New Hampshire, where I live, the rain has been endless. We have not had an ounce of sun. Pools and water parks have been closed and nobody is in the mood for cool summer treats. Even the fireworks for the fourth of July have been canceled!

Outdoor activities are definitely out of the question unless you want to be soaked.  So for the most part, families and friends have been sticking inside. Bowling and shopping are among the most common indoor activities. Not only is the rain endless and in my opinion depressing, but it is also hurting summer businesses like Water Country. The water park will be closed until the rain stops.

The ocean temperature on the New Hampshire coastline has decreased 11 degrees from 63° to 52° F.  So no swimming, hiking, or just playing outside.

When it is not raining, the sky is blackened with clouds, putting most people around here in gloomy moods. I wake up every morning hoping for a glimpse of the sun, but each day is the same: more rain. On the 4th of July, Manchester finally saw a little sun. But how long will the sun's rays last? Will we finally have the hot, humid, and bright days that symbolize a true summer? For now, more rain is forecas, but I’m still hoping Mother Nature will give my city a break from what has seemed to be eternal rain.

—Elizabeth Conway

PHOTO: Kid Reporter Elizabeth Conway spends a day in the rain in Manchester, New Hamphsire. Photo Courtesy Elizabeth Conway.

Comments

[Kid Reporter Danielle A.]

Elizabeth,

I really enjoyed reading your story and I know how you feel. Here in New Jersey where I live it rained for about fourteen days straight! This week the weather is great and it feels like summer is finally here. I hope the sun shines for you there too!

[Kip Reporter Gopa]

Hey Elizabeth,
I know, how depressing... I would feel exactly how you did if it were like this in New Jersey... but on the bright side, there are lots of indoor things you could do. Sometimes there are unexpected thunderstorms in my area too. I just go down to our basement and watch a movie. I hope the sun shines soon!