The latest “Earl” News from Ocracoke Island, one of our favorite places on earth, via Philip Howard’s blog.
That is almost the worst that can be said about the aftermath of Earl…almost. I did see one tree lying on top of a roof (at Ocracoke Restoration), but it hadn’t punched any holes through the roof, or even torn off shingles. And the outer portion of the dock at Ocracoke Harbor Inn has collapsed. There surely is other damage, but everyone I saw and spoke to agreed — the damage was minimal.
The tide was up in several places around the village (“flowing like a river” one neighbor said), but it had receded by morning. Blanche’s house is very low to the ground, and the tide came up to her siding, but not into the house. We lost no trees on Howard Street, just a few branches and limbs.
The last I heard there was sand on Hwy 12 between the village and Hatteras Inlet (I’m sure the state will be clearing that as soon as possible). I understand that officials are checking to see that the ferry channels are clear.
I do not have any up to date information about Hwy 12 on Hatteras Island, or about when the ferries will resume operation. However, the NC DOT web site should have the most current information: http://tims.ncdot.gov/tims/default.aspx
Lost in the 21st Century 