We were safely tucked in the boat and it was windy outside.  Tim looked out to the barrier and noticed the opening getting smaller.  Then we heard a fishing boat call the control people and they told him the barrier was closed until the morning.  A Tow Boat called to get in but graciously accepted the news that the harbor was closed for the night.  DH thought it was merely a practice run but we learned later that it was due to a tidal surge and was for real.  I never slept better.