The Torrent

In the pre-dawn darkness, I left the house to go to the airport. The radio warned of heavy rain. It started slowly and then came down in buckets. My windshield wipers couldn't keep up.

I came upon a flooded street. Most vehicles stopped - then a pick-up truck ventured through. With near zero visibility, I decided to follow him. I can't miss my flight.

Suddenly, the car was hit by a wall of water, almost throwing my small Mazda on its side. I was thrown violently against the door frame. Swept...