We used to love a good thunderstorm

Growing up on the prairies, summertime thunderstorms were always a source of excitement for the writer, even as a city girl. The first rumble would signal it was time to search for sleeping bags, and they would cuddle under them on the front step or the awning, watching the rain pour. After the storm had passed, the writer and their neighbours would throw on bathing suits and play in the warm puddles.

Now, as a mother, the writer was eager to see their daughter enjoy the thunderstorms as well, making traditions of watching the drama and encouraging her to dance in the rain.

However, in recent years, the writer noticed a change in their children's perception of thunderstorms. The thrill of the first rumble had evolved into worry about what would happen next. During the September long weekend, a powerful storm hit their neighborhood, causing damage and leaving the writer's daughter feeling worried about the future. Her climate anxiety is real, as she recalls the severe weather events of the past year.

In 2025, Manitoba experienced extreme weather, including the worst wildfire season in 30 years, with over 2.38 million hectares burned, and more than 33,000 Manitobans evacuated. The city of Winnipeg saw its hottest May day in recorded history, with temperatures reaching 37°C. Just last year, Winnipeg was placed under a critical red-level tornado warning, and an EF-1 tornado struck the city.

This summer, the writer witnessed another EF-1 tornado, which is something they had promised their daughter would never happen. As climate change continues to impact the world, the writer feels compelled to reassure their daughter that they can handle the storms, while also acknowledging the reality of climate change and its consequences.