I was surprised to look down in a grass field on a recent trip through Buchanan, Virginia and see tiny blue flowers blooming in early January.

I believe they are an invasive species from Eurasia known as bird’s eye speedwell or winter speedwell (Veronica persica).

Flower Blooming in January

The Capital Weather Gang looks back at this tragic day:

The snowstorm of January 13, 1982 will always be remembered for the terrible crash of Air Florida Flight 90.

The death toll was 78, making it Washington’s second worst weather-related disaster; the 1922 Knickerbocker Snowstorm’s death toll of 98 ranks it number one for weather-related disasters…

Do you remember?

What Does Poison Ivy Look Like?

Poison Ivy Vines

Frank, a good friend of mine in Pennsylvania says, “A hairy vine is a scary vine.” That’s good advice as the poison ivy vines do appear hairy as they grow up trees, unlike grapevine.

Poison Ivy Vine

Poison Ivy Leaves

The usual thing to look for is three leaf clusters, often shiny. The slogan here is “Leaves of three, leave them be!”

Poison Ivy Leaves

However, the plant can look different. For additional information, read page 7 of the May 2007 Potomac Appalachian Newsletter.

Poison Ivy Prevention

Obviously, not touching the poison ivy plants and vines is the best way to prevent getting a poison ivy rash. I’ve also heard that washing within 10 minutes can be effective if you are exposed. While freezing temperatures aren’t usually associated with the best time to do yardwork, I think cold spells during winter are the best times to chop the poison ivy vines in my yard as they aren’t so juicy.

Even if you don’t have a horse, the bridal trail at the Virginia State Arboretum and Blandy Experimental Farm is a nice place for a hike or trail run. Here’s a pdf trail map.

Blandy Farm Bridal Trail Marker

Getting There: Directions

Looking back, here are some memorable wildlife and weather moments from 2011.

Winter Weather

I’m a bit of a weather enthusiast and 2011 didn’t disappoint. It was definitely fun to go skiing in the yard for the first time after buying cross country skis. My favorite weather event of the year was the unusual rime ice event of February 1st. The fall snow storm in October was also a highlight.

Spring and Summer Wildflowers

Also a wildflower fan, this spring and summer featured good blooms of a variety of wildflowers.

A Bear with Three Cubs

I saw the bears later, but it was my wife who captured a mamma bear with three cubs in the yard (captured on film that is).

See Also:

2011 Snowfall Report

Capital Weather Gang’s Top 5 Weather Events of 2011

Have a great 2012!

After a cold start, 8.6F this morning, the temperature is up to 26F. Even a little bit of snow like we had yesterday sticks around when it’s this cold. Here’s a shot of our road still snow covered tonight…

Snow Covered Road at Night