Massive Nature

I've now experienced tropical cyclones, flash flooding, hailstorms and have now been in the epicentre of a spectacular electrical storm.

Whilst out visiting the in-laws at the somewhat greener farm, two massive black blobs made their way over Cunningham's Gap. Flashes and rumblings were only in the distance but then all of a sudden we were completely under it.

The 14 or so cows (including 3 very cute newborn calves) ran for cover, whilst we ran to the side verandah, sheltered only by corrugated iron roofing.

First strike was on a fence post about 25 metres away, splitting it in half. 10 seconds later a dead tree next to the fence was struck, giving a massive *BOOM* on impact, causing the tree to split and branches falling everywhere. Everything was pulsating and crackling and we were bracing ourselves for the house to be struck. Fortunately it missed but that was close enough.

5 minutes later the sun came out again and we ventured into the paddock to check out the damage. The dead tree had a crisp cut through the side where the lightning bolt had hit, and bits of wood and branches were lying everywhere and vertically embedded into the grass. The fence post was still standing, this time in two pieces rather than one, but the barb wiring fortunately had not been cut.

Now one other thing I've yet to witness is a cow giving birth, which I missed by a month. Oh well.