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It was about four o'clock in the afternoon. The heat was stifling. Gradually dark clouds gathered in the sky. "Looks like a storm is imminent," mother commented as she took in the clothes.
On the opposite side of the road, the construction workers stopped work, gathered their tools and used plastic sheets to cover the machineries. Pedestrians on the road quickened their pace while the roadside vendors pushed their carts hurriedly down and up the street. A strange illness filled the air. Suddenly, a loud clap of thunder followed by lightning flashes broke through the silence. The heavens opened and rain fell in bucketfuls.
The street below became chaotic. Vehicles slowed down as the rains splashed on their windscreens and visibility was poor. Pedestrians who were caught ran helter-skelter looking for shelter. Some crowded into bus shelters while others squeezed in the shop doorways. Still others ran into shopping centres to do some forced window shopping. The scene was made colourful with umbrellas popping up here and there.
The cars and buses slowed to a crawl and then to a standstill. Impatient drivers pressed their horns were muted by the lightning and thunder which did not seem to be in any hurry to go away. To make matters worse, the traffic light at the crossroads did not work and traffic was like a maze. One must have nerves of steel to drive there. Bang! Screech ee...ee. Oh, dear! A three-car pile-up!
Near the construction site were some food stalls. The stall holders rushed around to cover their food and yet they did not close up as business was brisk. People caught in the storm had decided to take a drink to get shelter and keep warm at the same time. As the rain fell heavier, puddles began to form. Motorcyclists and cars passing by sent sprays of dirty rain water here and there much to the annoyance of the pedestrians.
I felt warm and safe as I sat on the balcony and watched the scene in the street below. I hope I will not be caught in a storm like this ever.