Weather anomolies

It is being reported that a tornado touched down in Roanoke last night. It damaged a few houses and cars, but no one was injured. Still, this is not something that happens in Roanoke. The mountains generally shield the Roanoke Valley from most severe weather (save flooding). The last Tornado to touch down in Roanoke was before I was born – in 1973. I can’t help but notice the apparent increase in weather anomalies here and around the globe. However, I wonder if it’s not part of a long natural cycle we just aren’t aware of yet. Realistically, do our written accounts/records go back far enough to rule that out? Is this just another way to sensationalize the news for more viewers (ratings)?

I’ve noticed over the past 15 or so years how much the phrase “first time in history” is used in reporting. More recently you’ll notice that every time the gas price goes up, it’s a “record high.” Every time I read or watch the news, there’s some great story about the first time in history, but really, is it? Do we really know that this is the worst tornado season ever in the history of North America? Sometimes reporters throw in the “in recorded history” or “since records have been kept.” That’s a very vague reference to a non-specific number – not to mention the multitude of differing factors involved (such as inflation for gas prices). Tell me; exactly how long is recorded history? How long have records been kept for weather? What about in North America specifically? See how it can quickly go from interesting, specific facts to vague, sensationalized information? This is why I can’t trust what the media says in general. I have to filter everything through my logic processor in order to glean what the heart of the matter truly is in any story reported. I think I’ll go play Xbox instead.