Importance of Thunderstorm the night of Lottie's arrival

The storm that marks Lottie’s arrival in Toronto symbolizes rebirth, a washing away of sorrow and new life. This is a similar symbol to the repeated floods that echo through the novel. The storm is a symbol of Lottie’s acceptance of Elf’s death as well as foreshadowing Yoli’s acceptance. The storm shows that even in grief there is still life.