Dangerous Swimming and Boating Conditions Expected at Lake Michigan Beaches
Dangerous swimming and boating conditions were expected Thursday and Friday at all Lake Michigan beaches across Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan, with winds up to 20 miles-per-hour and waves as high as seven feet, the National Weather Service warned. The high swim risk comes hours after a series of severe thunderstorms quickly swept across the Chicago area, leaving behind downed trees and thousands of power outages as storm cleanup continues.
Swimming Conditions and Prohibitions
Dangerous swimming conditions are expected today through Friday morning at southern Lake Michigan beaches. Waves up to 4 to 7 feet and life-threatening rip currents are likely. The National Weather Service Chicago tweeted, “Dangerous swimming conditions are expected today through Friday morning at southern Lake Michigan beaches. Waves up to 4 to 7 feet and life-threatening rip currents are likely. Stay dry when waves are high! #ILwx #INwx” Swimming was prohibited at nearly two dozen beaches Thursday, according to the Chicago Park District website. Conditions were expected to be updated later Thursday morning.
Weather Forecast and Temperatures
“Stay out of the water today and tomorrow,” Roman said of the high swim risk and life-threatening currents. The low-pressure system also brought 90-degree temperatures and high humidity to the area, but temperatures nearly 10 degrees lower will be in place Thursday, NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist Alicia Roman said. “Feeling like spring later this afternoon,” Roman said, with highs in the mid-70s, followed by temperatures in the 60s overnight. Warmer temperatures will move in Friday afternoon, Roman said, with more 80-degree readings but cooler near the lake.
More Showers and Storms
According to the NWS, “periodic bouts” of showers and thunderstorms are expected to blow through at times between Friday night and Tuesday. “Any storms during this period may be strong to severe, capable of producing damaging winds and torrential rainfall, which could lead to flash flooding,” the NWS said. Any storms that develop Saturday would move in early in the day, Roman said, starting around 8 a.m., moving west through lunchtime. But rain won’t linger through the day, Roman said. And while Sunday could also see some showers, the weekend isn’t expected to be a complete wash out.
Outlook for Next Week
Next week, more heat and humidity is on the way, Roman said. The area can expect a return to warmer temperatures, with highs in the 80s and 90s. However, it’s essential to stay tuned to weather forecasts for any updates on potential storms or severe weather conditions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Lake Michigan beaches are expected to experience dangerous swimming and boating conditions due to high winds and waves. It’s crucial to stay out of the water and follow the instructions of local authorities. The weather forecast indicates a chance of showers and storms throughout the weekend, with warmer temperatures expected next week. Stay safe and stay informed about the latest weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the weather conditions and swimming prohibitions at Lake Michigan beaches:
Q: Why are swimming conditions dangerous at Lake Michigan beaches?
A: Swimming conditions are dangerous due to high winds, waves, and life-threatening rip currents.
Q: How long will the swimming prohibitions be in place?
A: The swimming prohibitions are expected to be in place until Friday morning, but conditions will be updated later Thursday morning.
Q: What can I expect from the weather forecast this weekend?
A: The weather forecast indicates a chance of showers and storms throughout the weekend, with warmer temperatures expected next week.
Q: How can I stay safe during the dangerous swimming conditions?
A: Stay out of the water, follow the instructions of local authorities, and stay tuned to weather forecasts for any updates on potential storms or severe weather conditions.
