In less than two weeks, thousands of visitors are expected to descend on Chatham-Kent to see a once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon.
A rare total solar eclipse will be visible on April 8 along a narrow path that extends from the southwestern to northeastern corners of North America. The best spot to see a total eclipse locally will be along the Lake Erie shoreline in the southern part of Chatham-Kent.
Chatham-Kent councillor Trevor Thompson took a trip to Kentucky to see a total solar eclipse in 2017, where the moon blocked the sun and day turned into night for several minutes. He said it was an awe-inspiring sight.
In two weeks, Thompson will only have to go to his backyard to see the total solar eclipse. He said if things are similar to his trip, there could potentially be huge crowds in the area near the lake. He said businesses are expecting visitors from across North America to come to Chatham-Kent.
Emergency services held an eclipse planning meeting on Monday.
Fire Chief Chris Case said police have a traffic plan in place for the roads near Lake Erie. All fire stations in Chatham-Kent will be staffed and there will be an emergency services boat on Lake Erie and another boat on Rondeau Bay, as it’s expected that many people will head out onto Lake Erie for an unobstructed view.
Erieau’s fire hall will be a medical command centre on April 8.
At Monday’s council meeting, Thompson asked for the washrooms to be open along the lake for the expected crowds.
The next total solar eclipse for Chatham-Kent is expected to take place in 2374.
