Gulf Shores flooded, not overwhelmed

GULF SHORES, Ala. (WALA) - Slowly but surely, conditions have been improving down in Gulf Shores.

At noon, city officials removed the barricades blocking access to Beach Boulevard.

There are a few residential streets that are flooded over, and as those floodwaters subside, the residents will be allowed to go back in.

All day, powerful winds pounded southern Baldwin County.

There was minor structural damage. FOX10 News spotted one condo with siding that ripped off, and another business had an awning that ripped off.

But for the most part, Gulf Shores officials said the city fared very well during Isaac.

Gulf Shores prides itself as a tourist destination, and on Wednesday morning, the view of the floodwaters was the main attraction.

Local resident Boris Musil said, "I'm from Czech Republic, from Europe. I've never seen this weather like here, you know."

On Wednesday morning, the entrances to the beach areas were blocked off.

There was a lot of flooding throughout, and there was some minor damage on buildings here.

But by noon, the barricades were removed, traffic began running through the town, and sightseers came out to look at the beach.

On Tuesday, the beach at Gulf Shores was entirely submerged, but on Wednesday afternoon, the waters receded.

Some spectators tried to walk on the beach or use skimboards, but they were quickly ushered away by lifeguards.

You could be fined if caught in the water during double red flag conditions.

Spectator Deborah Richardson said, "It's just neat. Thank God we didn't get more damage than they anticipated."

PHOTOS: Isaac's approach and impact

Gulf Shores officials said the city avoided many of the problems that typically come with a big storm- like power outages and sewage problems.

Gulf Shores mayor Robert Craft said, "So we're gonna be able to have a Labor Day weekend without the normal complications you would have in a more significant storm event."

Tourism officials expect the weather to clear up in time for the Labor Day weekend.

In fact, officials are optimistic that all beach businesses will be open by Thursday.

So as the waters recede, the city is turning its back to Isaac and looking forward to welcoming tourists for the weekend.