The Storm and Avonlea's Losses
Anne of AvonleaA predicted storm becomes a real catastrophe that destroys crops and trees, while exposing the limits of improvement and the resilience of the community.
increasing
Bearing strength in each event
decreasing
A Distant Warning

A Distant Warning
A Newspaper Joke
Gilbert Blythe and Anne Shirley publish playful local notes under a false signature, including a prediction that Uncle Abe's storm will strike on May 23. The joke gives the weather prophet a reputation he does not want.
A Date Remembered
When the date arrives unusually hot and still, the written prediction returns to mind. Its coincidence adds unease to the approaching weather.
The Black Cloud

The Black Cloud
A Sudden Threat
A vast black cloud rolls over the northwest as Anne dismisses Avonlea school. Its livid edges and lightning make the storm appear almost unreal.
Seeking Shelter
Harmon Andrews carries children in his wagon, while Anne rushes Davy and Dora toward Green Gables. The community acts quickly as daylight collapses into darkness.
The Hailstorm

The Hailstorm
A Violent Interior
Hail breaks the north and west windows at Green Gables, and Marilla, Anne, and the twins take shelter amid the noise. Davy fears it is Judgment Day, while Dora clings quietly to Anne.
Widespread Destruction
The storm strips crops and blossoms, breaks branches, and ruins most of the Society's young trees. A short ordeal changes the landscape across Avonlea.
Ginger's Death

Ginger's Death
Damage at Harrison's
Lightning strikes Harrison's kitchen chimney, knocks over Ginger's cage, and damages the floor. The parrot is killed in the storm.
Grief Without Disguise
Harrison admits that Ginger was his only company. Anne cries with him, recognizing that the bird's abrasive habits never erased the affection that bound them together.
Rebuilding After Hail

Rebuilding After Hail
Counting the Losses
Residents compare damage, find roads blocked by hail, and hear reports of worse destruction elsewhere. The farms and orchards face difficult recovery.
More Springs Ahead
The old Boulter house burns after being struck, unintentionally fulfilling a Society goal. Anne feels conflicted but chooses hope, trusting that new springs will bring chances to plant again.
May, before the twenty-third
May 23, late afternoon
May 23, during the storm's forty-five minutes
the evening after the storm
the days after May 23