"40 Days" of Rain on Le Puy--without an Ark

It was a difficult spring in Le Puy this year with too much rain, many storms, and cold temperatures--including snow on May 13. Farm crops and gardens especially suffered, and the weather didn't make it easy for the pilgrims and tourists who came through the city during this prime time of the season.

L'Éveil, the local newspaper, reported last week that the lentil crop has turned a devastating yellow when it should be green. Producers are very worried about their harvests. Fodder for dairy cows was also damaged and reduced, and farmers fear that this will affect milk production. 

Gardeners were likewise devastated by the inclement weather. Aphids and weeds have arrested their vegetables' growth and development. Many potatoes and tomatoes have rotted due to mildew. The hail storm broke many young and tender plants in two.

The International Centre was affected by the bad weather as well. When guests are dependent on walking to various places in town, it is more difficult for them to get around in the rain. One night we even had a hail storm while a few sisters were out waiting to see the luminaries. Being resourceful women, however, they sheltered under a porch to wait out the storm. 

The Borne River, which runs parallel to the Centre a couple blocks away, has been roaring downstream with very muddy, churned up waters. The water is normally clear with a tranquil flow. The banks were also flooded due to the excess water from the rain.

Pedestrian bridges over the Borne River were flooded and prevented crossings.

However, the rains have produced some long, tender grass for grazing animals. One unusually sunny day while on a walk, I encountered a herd of sheep whose shepherd had fenced them in along the river. It was a literal paradise for them with the babbling sounds of the river in the background and all that delicious grass to eat.  

They were a bit shy, however, and preferred to show me their derrières as they determinedly rushed ahead down to the end of their territory. Only then was I able to take a few photos--and even that seemed to be a struggle for them. To cope with my intrusion, they just ignored me and went on munching the fresh grass.