Even though Spring Break is less than two weeks away, one should not disregard the atrocious weather outside. I know most people would rather be sun tanning in Florida or relaxing on a Caribbean cruise right now, but it's important to bundle up until that time arrives. While it's easy to say that the majority of Ball State students strongly dislike winter weather, we shouldn't put it behind us.
Granted, Ball State has not experienced a storm similar to the one that struck campus last year during the week of Valentine's Day. But winter has certainly been worse and covered more weeks in the year. It might seem that last year's snowstorm was worse than any we have seen this year, but it did not last as long. Thus far, this winter season has been ugly, gloomy and downright disgusting.
Although East Central Indiana recently enjoyed a few random 50-degree days, the rain, sleet, ice, snow and wind has been nauseating. Despite being a fan of the winter season, the cold, dark days are quickly adding up. This year's weather is one of negative temperatures, extreme wind chill and icy pavement. Not to mention the multiple wrongful assumptions meteorologists have made. Damn them.
As students prepare for Spring Break, I would suggest keeping the swimsuit, shorts and sunglasses under wrap until the flight for Ft. Myers lands. I know Muncie residents want warm, sunny and happy weather, but unfortunately that is not a possibility. I cannot say when warm temperatures will become more consistent, but until that happens, I suggest wearing the Dickies jacket, Old Navy gloves and hideous Ugg boots.
Even though it is supposed to be in the 30s this week, I doubt the temperature will reach 25 given the wind. With conditions conducive for water to freeze, icy walkways and roads will form. This by itself is a reason to dress properly. Furthermore, don't be the one who thinks it's funny to run on ice, because that usually results in a broken bone and/or concussion. Simply put, take your time.
For example, last Friday the temperature was fairly warm in the morning, but by 1 p.m., all hell broke loose. Snowflakes swiftly hit the ground, wind was blowing everywhere and visibility decreased significantly. Lucky for me, I was getting ready to leave Muncie.
As I got on the road, I saw cars swerving every which way trying to maintain stability. State Road 332 was a mess and I-69 was even worse. Within a five-mile radius, I saw two vehicles in the ditch and three two-car accidents.
Yes, all students want Spring Break, but being careful and not rushing to get home is the only way you'll make it to your destination in one piece.
There are several ways to prepare for the winter season, but do what is best for you. Wear the sweatshirt and shorts. Cover the body with four layers, a hat and gloves. Eat the fruits and vegetables. Or be an avid viewer of the 6 p.m. weather forecast. Whatever the case, make it work and stay toasty. Besides, it will make you feel better and give the employees at the health clinic a deserved break from the flu, sore throat, etc.
So, enjoy the occasional warm day Muncie throws out if you will, but continue to dress warm, protecting you from the heinous conditions outside. Spring Break will be here in 10 days, so wait it out. Keep the sandals, skirts and high-speed road rage at home. Cold weather is inevitable in Muncie, so why act like it isn't?
Jason Marer a sophomore secondary social studies education major and writes 'Think to Exist' for the Daily News. His views do not necessarily agree with those of the newspaper.
Write to Jason at jsmarer@bsu.edu
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