Ocra-soak

And I don't mean it's all been that peaceful pitter-patter-on-a-tin-roof rain; there have been torrential downpours at times. High winds have caused the massive amounts of water falling from the sky to be violently blown around in crazy angles and from all directions. It's during these types of events that I wish my glasses came with mini windshield wipers. But anyway, the village ducks are having a blast frolicking and doing whatever it is ducks typically do, and they're doing all that in roads that have become canals and yards that have become ponds. Up to two feet of rain water has collected in areas on Highway 12 between the Ocracoke Pony Pasture and the ferry landing at Ocracoke's north end causing the NC DOT to close the highway and halt ferry operations between here and Hatteras Island. And I, along with many other Ocracoke residents, woke up to water-front property.

This low pressure system/tropical depression/Nor'Easter has been causing some problems since it first spun our way about a week ago. High winds and rain have made for exciting ferry rides, and interrupted travel and vacation plans. Water collecting in large amounts has inspired people to drive through puddles like they (as stated by a resident),"... are in a Ford F-150 ad...", and the end of this weather event is still a few days away.

The National Park Service has temporarily closed all ORV Ramps until further notice, however pedestrians are still allowed on the beaches. The NPS campground on Ocracoke has standing water over many of the sites, but it remains open for any of you folks who refuse to be deterred by the weather.

If you're up for a village walk, be prepared with water shoes or boots. A raincoat and umbrella may be good too. I didn't make it all the way down Back Road today, but during previous rain events I've seen a great sign placed along the road, just beyond where Back Roads meets Old Beach Road. It reads, "No Wake Zone", no doubt encouraging motorists to drive slowly and not like they're in a Ford F-150 commercial. And heck! Bring a camera along! You never know what cute animals you'll spot or the fun reflections you'll notice while you're wandering around. Plus, who doesn't like to splash around in puddles? I did that yesterday. It was totally excellent. Today I might try kayaking around my yard...

If you need a break from water activities but understandably need to get out, businesses are open for, you guessed it, business! You can explore the Ocracoke Preservation Museum, Teach's Hole Blackbeard Museum, and the Ocracoke Visitor Center for some interesting history about this great island. Gift shops and galleries are open too, so you can shop 'till you drop while you admire art, try on clothing, and find trinkets to remember the damp week. Picking up a new hobby could be fun too! I started knitting last night thanks to a beginner's kit I purchased after work, and so far it's been a great way to create and stay busy. When you need a break, stop by any of the local establishments throughout the village for a hot meal or refreshing drink. But whatever you do, try not to let Mother Nature rain on your parade. You're on Ocracoke! Enjoy! And stay tuned to Ocracoke Current for traffic, highway, and ferry updates.