Stranded

"We went to the Variety Store and bought toothpaste and deodorant," they told me yesterday. "Wish we'd packed our bags. Now we'll be wearing the same clothes until the ferries start running again."

These folks were some of those who came to the island yesterday for a day trip, and ended up spending the night. Maybe two nights. The wind is gusting to 40 mph or more as I write. Trees are bending in the wind, the air is sharp, and the ferries are tied securely to the docks.

Locals are taking it in stride. It's one of the consequences of living on an island. Honestly, many of us like being cut off from the outside world, at least for a while. We are reminded of our special place here on the Outer Banks.

Remembering Hurricane Alex three years ago, some islanders have moved their cars to higher ground. Already, Jude says, the tidewater in the creek in front of her house is just about ready to spill over into her yard. And we've heard reports that the ocean has washed over the road on Hatteras Island.

We'll keep you posted.

This month's newsletter discusses the planned replacement of the seven bridges on Ocracoke Island in early 2008, and explains some of the issues we will face. You can read it here.