A popular beach along the shores of Lake Michigan in northwestern Indiana will be shut down as part of efforts to stem the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Whiting Mayor Joe Stahura said that effective on Wednesday, Whihala Beach will be closed until further notice, according to The (Northwest Indiana) Times.

This all due to the Large crowds that have congregated at the beach over the past several weeks have been unable to effectively follow social distancing guidelines amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Whihala Beach is southeast of Chicago and northwest of Gary, Indiana.

Whiting Lakefront Park also will be closed to vehicular traffic starting Wednesday. Bike and walking trails will remain open for pedestrian use.