The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has expanded the evacuation zone in downtown Wheatley following the confirmed release of hydrogen sulfide near the public library at 35 Talbot Road West.
All residents within 100 metres of the site—totaling approximately 60 homes—have been temporarily evacuated as emergency crews and technical experts assess the situation.
The evacuation was prompted by reports of a gas odour in the area and subsequent confirmation of the hazardous substance.
An evacuation centre has been established at the Wheatley Arena, located at 196 Erie St. N, where affected residents can access support services.
The centre will remain open for the duration of the evacuation, though no timeline has yet been provided for when residents may return.
Officials are urging the public to avoid the downtown core as the multi-agency response continues.
On-site teams include Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue, Police, EMS, Public Utilities Commission, Employment and Social Services, and Victim Services.
Additional support has been deployed from Entegrus, Enbridge, Windsor Hazmat, and several provincial ministries, including Environment, Natural Resources, and Emergency Preparedness.
Geological scientists from the University of Windsor are also assisting in the investigation.
“Please keep our first responders and other staff on site in your prayers,” West Kent Councillor Lauren Anderson posted on social media.
“May God watch over our mighty village and those within it.”
Updates are being shared through CKAlert as the situation evolves.
