November 22nd was the 50th anniversary in the death of our 35th President, John F. Kennedy (JFK). This solemn day will be remembered by old and young alike, but many don’t realize the role weather played in his assassination.
As spectators packed into the crowded streets around Dallas, many could be seen wearing yellow raincoats. Meteorologists had predicted that November 22, 1963 would be a cold day, but after some morning showers, the clouds had cleared and the sun shone through.
Since the weather was now sunny, Secret Service agents made the decision to leave the plexiglass roof off the limousine as they readied the car for JFK’s arrival. This was part of a long-standing order by Kennedy to leave the roof off when weather permitted.
In the years that followed JFK’s death, the Warren Commission would scrutinize the decision to remove the dome.
Had it rained just a little bit longer, the last 50 years may have been totally different…
Stay Safe. Know Before™.
The WeatherBug – Earth Networks Team