Plum Rain

We are in the midst of our first Plum Rain season here in Shanghai. The Plum Rain is a "special" meteorological phenomenon of the middle and lowland areas of the Yangtze River. Usually, this glorious season starts in the middle of June and ends in early July, lasting for about 25 days. The climate during this season is characterized by continuous rain and hot temperatures. I think they should have named the season "afro season" because that is what has resulted of my hair over the last few weeks!

The season gets its name from the ancient Chinese, who timed the arrival of the season by the growth of the plum. Usually, the rainy season begins in early summer when the plums are ripe, and lasts about three weeks. There is an old saying about the rainy season: "When the rain falls on the ripe plums, there follows 40 rainy days".

I am amazed at how well people are able to stay dry, even on days like today where they are forecasting 100mm of rain (4 inches for those that don't want to do the math). Until around 10 years ago, Shanghai was mostly a bike/scooter city. So, no doubt there have been many rainy afternoons to tweak one's design.

Some choose to go the umbrella route (much easier with a backseat driver)

Others go straight plastic.

There are many colors to choose from so you can always coordinate it with your wardrobe so you look good when you show up at the bar.

And no worries about having to strap any purchases to your bike. There are plenty of strategies for that as well.

And of course...McDonalds will still deliver!