A narrative journey through the summers of Dorchester, as dictated by rainfall.
The summer of 2011 will be remembered for its relentless rains, amassing a staggering 16.66 inches. Picnics were postponed, and hiking trails turned into streams, marking a season where umbrellas were more crucial than sunglasses.
With 11.38 inches of rain, the summer of 2012 offered a mix of sunny days interrupted by sudden downpours. Festivals faced delays, and sports fields were often too soggy for play, creating a season of unpredictable outdoor endeavors.
The record-breaking summer of 2013 saw an overwhelming 18.72 inches of rainfall, flooding parks and turning gardens into marshlands. It was a challenging time for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous events washed out.
2014 brought a comparatively mild summer with 10.29 inches of rain, allowing for more consistent outdoor activities. Yet, the occasional heavy showers reminded everyone of nature's unpredictable temperament.
The summer of 2015 was the closest to normalcy, with just 8.02 inches of rain. It allowed for rescheduled events from previous years to finally take place, offering a semblance of a traditional summer joy.
In 2016, summer was surprisingly dry, with only 4.11 inches of rain, leading to concerns about drought but also providing ample opportunity for outdoor adventures and community gatherings under the sun.
The summer of 2017 brought back the rain with 11.78 inches, causing occasional disruptions but also nurturing the land after the dry spell of the previous year, leading to lush landscapes and blooming gardens.
With 11.87 inches of rainfall, the summer of 2018 was marked by consistent drizzles, dampening plans but also ensuring the region remained verdant and vibrant, a testament to the resilience of both nature and the people of Dorchester.
Each bar represents more than just millimeters of rain; it represents the resilience of the Dorchester community through summers of bounty and bouts of grey. The collective spirit shines, come rain or shine, as reflected in this decade-long rainfall journey.