Local News

Folks Flock To Lake Arlington On Memorial Day

May 25, 2015 / 6:16 PM CDT / CBS Texas

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With the sun stingy, and the sky a moody blue, it didn't feel much like the unofficial start to summer. But, at Lake Arlington, the boat ramps were open.

"We were out here yesterday," says Jason Fulks, "and the water is up a foot or two since yesterday."

But, at least it wasn't raining. "Some of the lakes like, Texoma is up like 24 feet," exclaimed Fulks. Wouldn't even want to be on that lake right now. This is a good one. It's safe. We don't go too fast. Just enjoy ourselves."

So they weren't the only family looking to grab jet skis, fishing poles and pans of succulent barbecue and head to the lake.

"We had checked the other lakes," says Crystal Jackson. "We went up to Joe Pool, all of the other lakes are closed due to the flooding, so here we are! Lake Arlington was open and we're having a good time!"

But, it was understood that outdoor holiday fun would be a race against the weathe and the clock was ticking.

"Yeah, try to get a little bit in before the weather gets bad," said David Murray as he eased his boat into the lake, "hopefully, fun around a little bit, spend an hour or so wakeboarding, tubing maybe."

And soon—too soon it seemed for those enjoying a day off—time ran out. The temperature dropped suddenly, the winds picked up, and with thunder, lightning, and pounding rain—the storm rolled in.
"Getting outta here before it gets us!" shouted one man as he hurried from the lake. "Yeah, it was blowing a little bit and then all of a sudden it was just gusts!" exclaimed another boater heading for cover.

Still, it was fun like it lasted. Now, Richard Torres says he will "go home, chill, and finish the rest of the evening" but, out of the weather!

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