Erie Shore Drive is closed again.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent said on Monday afternoon that high winds, high waves, and flooding were responsible for the closure of Erie Shore Drive between Bisnett Line and Erieau Road to all but local residents and emergency vehicles. The decision was made at mid-day as strong wave action and sustained winds forced water over the road in several locations. Ryan Brown, director of public works, said 35-40 kilometre per hour winds from the southwest with gusts to 60 kilometres per hour forced water from Lake Erie over homes and cottages onto the road.
The road closure is being enforced by Chatham-Kent police.
“If you aren’t a resident, there is no reason to be on that road at this time,” Brown said.
There are approximately 120 homes and cottages located along the road which sits atop a dike that protects low-lying farmland to the north.
Brown said municipal staff are monitoring the situation and will provide updates when needed.
The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority has issued a strong wind warning for Lake Erie. The conservation authority said strong southwesterly winds are expected throughout the day on Monday. The warning is in effect until Tuesday.
