Batten Down The Hatches, Carroll Gardens

Hours before Hurricane Irene is supposed to hit New York City, the first drops of rain have begun to fall. Here in Carroll Gardens, everyone is battening down the hatches.

Some more literally than others, I may say.

Many are hurrying to get some last minute supplies.

Quite a few stores in the neighborhood have announced that they will be closed today and Sunday. Obviously, without mass transit service, it does not make much sense to keep their doors open.

...which leaves a window of opportunity for those sidewalk entrepreneurs like this man who was selling flashlights and batteries and other hurricane supplies on Smith Street

He obviously found customers.