Oh, all right, so maybe it’s not really a poem you’re reading now… Deal with it.

And speaking of coping: dealing with the repercussions of the Mega-Snowstorm of (February) 2010 seems to be quite a struggle for the majority of the Washington, DC region.

Although the snowstorm ended earlier than predicted, the combination of alternating sunlight and freezing temperatures have conspired to create excessively thick (and for some, virtually invisible) ice layers on the roads and sidewalks. This has led to treacherous driving and even pedestrian activities outdoors.

Fortunately, a lot of people have wisely chosen to remain ensconced at home, snug in the comfort of their respective dwellings. Some of this is due to the announced closures of schools and businesses, many which were publicized over the weekend and the latter part of last week,. Some was unfortunately due to failed attempts by many to leave their homes, only to find themselves obstructed by ice and snow.

There is yet another category of people who are currently suffering, however: these people lost electricity during the snowstorm. While the actual totals are constantly fluctuating, and the various repair crews are probably working hard to restore service, many people are even today struggling with the consequences of no electricity in their homes. Hopefully, this situation will be corrected in the minutes and hours to come.

It seems that, unlike the previous Mega Blizzard of 2009 (or, to be more precise, Mega Blizzard of December 2009), this upcoming one has more people in a greater frenzy than before. This may be due to the greater emphasis on reporting it, and the noted severity.

This time, it is expected to be somewhere between 12″ – 24″, at least, to the Washington, DC area, and it is expected to last for at least 2 – 3 days, so many people have begun to stock up for the inclement weather.

What is not certain yet is the government response to this upcoming natural disaster: will there be a strong outpouring of maintenance and emergency assistance to the area, or just a “everybody-fend-for-yourselves” attitude that is so commonly seen?

It’s been several years since a massive, crushing snowstorm hit the Washington, DC area, so I suppose you could say that it was long overdue.

Given the craziness of the Congressional struggle over healthcare benefits this week (which appears to be the political version of last-minute cramming for an exam, rather than steady, deliberative, organized studying) and the continued poor economic performance across multiple sectors and lackluster retail sales, having a respite in the form of severe bad weather may be a blessing in disguise.