Hydrogen sulfide detected near Wheatley library prompts evacuation of 60 homes. Emergency teams and scientists are now on-site.
Gas Detection Prompts Immediate Evacuation
Residents living within 100 metres of the Wheatley library in Ontario were ordered to evacuate Thursday after hydrogen sulfide gas was detected “bubbling” behind the building. The Municipality of Chatham-Kent confirmed that 60 homes are now included in the expanded evacuation zone, first declared earlier that day.
Emergency Teams Mobilized
First responders arrived on site around 1:45 p.m. after reports of a strong gas odour in the area. According to Chatham-Kent Fire Chief Chris Case, crews discovered gas and water surfacing behind the library. Testing confirmed the presence of hydrogen sulfide — a highly toxic, colourless gas with a distinctive rotten egg smell.
The response includes Chatham-Kent emergency services, local utility companies, and social services, along with a hazardous materials team from Windsor. Geological scientists from the University of Windsor and officials from provincial ministries — including Environment, Natural Resources, and Emergency Preparedness — are also involved.
Shelter Provided for Displaced Residents
An evacuation centre has been set up at 196 Erie St. N., where affected residents can stay for the duration of the evacuation. Officials have not yet provided a timeline for when it may be safe to return.
“The site will remain open until further notice,” said the municipality. “We appreciate residents’ cooperation as we work to resolve the issue.”
Community Haunted by 2021 Explosion
This incident has revived painful memories of the 2021 explosion in Wheatley, which injured 20 people and flattened part of the downtown. That blast was later linked to an abandoned gas well. In October 2023, local officials reported that the well had been safely sealed and no longer emitted gas.
Many residents expressed concern that the problem has resurfaced. “We were optimistic it was behind us,” said Fire Chief Case. “We know this is a terrible thing to happen again, but we’re doing everything we can to investigate and secure the area.”
Local Reaction: Fear and Frustration
For residents and local business owners, the news was unsettling. Doug Walker, who lost equipment in the 2021 blast, said the current situation is “a little unnerving.” He reported detecting a gas smell earlier in the day and called 911 after confirming his equipment wasn’t the source.
Area resident Al Ringrose, once evacuated for two years, said the recurrence was troubling. “We thought it was over,” he said. “Apparently, it’s not.”
Jeff Edwards, another resident forced to leave Thursday, shared his frustration: “I didn’t even grab my medication or supper. I don’t know how long this will last.”
Authorities Urge Public to Stay Clear
Police and municipal officials are asking the public to avoid the area while investigations continue. The cause of the new gas release is under review, with environmental and geological assessments underway.
Hydrogen sulfide can originate from both industrial and natural sources, including inactive oil wells — a known risk in Wheatley. Officials emphasized that resident safety remains their top priority.
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