Storm sends boaters, vacationers home early - The Union Leader
"Everybody's pulling their boats. Better to be safe than sorry," said Bob Parker, who runs Hampton Harbor Tackle.
Boaters began arriving early Saturday to grab their boats, while across from the Hampton Harbor State Marina, vacationers who were hoping to enjoy a beautiful weekend on the Seacoast found themselves heading home early.
Those with their campers parked on lots at the Hampton Beach State Park were ordered to leave by 6 p.m. Saturday. That's when all state parks and beaches were shut down.
Irene forced other closures as well, including Star Island, one of the nine rugged islands that make up the Isles of Shoals. Star was expected to remain closed until Tuesday.
Other town beaches on the Seacoast closed as well, including Seabrook, where officials planned to open an emergency shelter at 9 a.m. Sunday at the Community Center.
Irene spoiled plans for beach vacationers such as Mike and Carolyn Blanchard and their two boys. The Goffstown family arrived at the Hampton Beach State Park campground on Thursday and planned to head home Sunday.
"They kids were kind of upset, but I don't want to be out in this in 70 mph winds," Mike Blanchard said. Ocean Boulevard in Hampton was rather quiet. Some sunbathers remained at the beach through late afternoon, but the crowd was thin as storm clouds rolled in and electronic signs urged people to secure loose items.
Irene's visit was also bad for beach business, but some store owners said they were glad it hit now instead of Sept. 9 to 11 — the weekend of the 22nd annual Hampton Beach Seafood Festival.
"If it's going to be on a weekend, business-wise, this is the best weekend," said Bob Mitchell, owner of Mrs. Mitchell's Gifts.
28 Aug, 2011--
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