Chicago, Illinois – Dangerous swimming conditions will continue along Lake Michigan beaches Friday night as high waves and strong currents create a heightened risk for swimmers. The National Weather Service has issued a high swim risk alert, particularly for Porter County in northwest Indiana, where rip currents are expected to be strongest.
According to the National Weather Service office in Chicago, the hazardous conditions will persist until early Saturday. Officials warn that even experienced swimmers could be swept away by powerful currents and urge residents to stay out of the water until conditions improve.
Winds up to 20 mph are fueling waves and choppy waters, especially near Chicago’s shoreline and across the Indiana border. Lifeguards and beach patrols are expected to step up warnings, but residents are advised not to rely on visual cues as rip currents can appear suddenly and in otherwise calm-looking waters.
The weather pattern will stabilize by Saturday, with mostly sunny skies expected across northern Illinois and northwest Indiana. By the end of the weekend, highs will climb into the upper 60s and low 70s, giving the region a stretch of pleasant late-summer weather.
Hazardous beach conditions remain in effect through Friday night, and additional advisories may be issued if strong winds return.
Five Day Forecast for Chicago, IL
- Saturday: Sunny, high near 67, low 51
- Sunday: Sunny, high near 68, low 53
- Monday: Sunny, high near 73, low 57
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 77, low 62
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 74, low 65
