Bowling and Water Don't Mix
For the second year in a row, rivers are overflowing their banks in Lowell. Many roads and businesses were forced to close due to the rising waters or the threat of rising waters. In May 2006, the bowling alley in Lowell was severely damaged by flood waters and was closed for a number of months for cleanup and repairs. Yesterday, the lanes were again shut down due to the threat of the rising Merrimack River.
The above picture was taken yesterday and shows a flooded bowling alley parking lot. You can also see tarps and plastic sheets up against the bottom of the doors. They packed these with dirt and sand in an effort to defend against the threatening water. The interesting thing about this scene is that the river, which is across the main road, had not flooded the road (which was still open to traffic). It appears as if poor drainage in the parking lot caused excess water to collect.