Lake St. Clair Metropark Closed; No Swimming As Temps Soar
HARRISON TWP. (WWJ) - As many head to the beach to celebrate Independence Day, a popular Metro Detroit swimming destination is closed for business.
Denise Semion, spokesperson for the Huron-Clinton Metroparks, said power outages at Lake St. Clair Metropark (formerly Metro Beach Metropark) in Harrison Township have forced the closure of the park on Wednesday.
"Basically we can't use any of the bathrooms, the restrooms are all closed, and so the park is closed at this time," said Semion.
DTE Energy crews are on site trying to correct the problem, but there are downed power lines and the danger is too high to remain open for park guests, Semion said. It's not clear when power will be restored.
Those who have rented picnic shelters, however, will still be allowed to enter the park and will have access to portable restrooms. Semion said all other cars will be turned away and denied entry to the park.
If you're really determined to get into the park and enjoy the beach, there is still some light at the end of the tunnel. Semion said all you have to do is enter the park on foot. Then, you can follow the walkway and end up at the beach.
Semion said if you've rented a shelter for Wednesday or plan to walk into the park, it would be a good idea to call the park ahead of your arrival. For more information, call 586-463-4581 or visit www.metroparks.com.
Meantime, temperatures in the Metro Detroit region will be fluttering in the record-setting range on Wednesday. The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning in effect until 8 a.m. Thursday.
In extremely hot weather, health officials say everyone should take precautions and look for ways to stay cool. In order to avoid heat illness, the Michigan Department of Community Health says use air conditioning whenever possible or spend time in an air-conditioned location, stay hydrated, and minimize direct exposure to the sun. (More tips here).
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