Here’s a prayer to be said before a storm hits. I wrote this for the great Chicago blizzard of 2011 and posted it just as the storm kicked into high gear. Here’s a link to a prayer of gratitude to be said “After the Storm” passes.

Before the Storm
G-d of heaven and earth,
Source of All,
The storm approaches,
A tribute to the force of creation,
Your power and might.

What chaos will blow with the wind?
What destruction will strike?
Who will suffer? Who will stay secure?

G-d of mystery and awe,
Grant us safety as the tempest engulfs our homes and our lives.
Protect us. Shield us. Guard us.
Grant peace of mind to those in fear.
Grant food and clothing,
Warmth and shelter to those in need.
Bless emergency and rescue workers with the tools and skills they need
As they risk their lives for the sake of our families, communities and friends.
Grant healing to those who are sick or injured.
Bless us with common sense throughout the squall
And with kinship and cooperation when the storm passes.

G-d of awe and wonder,
Our Rock and our Refuge,
See us through the gale
And watch us through the night,
For comfort, security and wellbeing,
So that we may serve You in love.

© 2011 Alden Solovy and tobendlight.com.  All rights reserved.

Postscript: I’ve reposted this prayer, with audio, for the approach of Hurricane Irene, along with new optional language.

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Photo credit: Nature’s Fury