Chicago, Illinois – A dangerous stretch of weather continues along Lake Michigan, where high waves and rip currents are keeping beaches unsafe through Thursday morning. Swimmers and boaters are urged to stay out of the water as the National Weather Service warns conditions could be life-threatening, particularly for inexperienced swimmers.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, waves of 3 to 6 feet are expected, especially along northern and central Cook County beaches. The agency issued a Beach Hazards Statement that remains in effect until Thursday morning. Residents are advised to avoid piers, jetties, and breakwalls, where strong currents and waves could easily sweep people into the lake.
Winds out of the northeast will remain gusty through Thursday, keeping waters choppy and extending the rip current risk into northwest Indiana by early Thursday. Chicago’s Lake Shore Drive could also see delays due to blowing spray and wet pavement near the lakefront.
Relief arrives by Friday as skies clear and conditions calm. Temperatures will rebound into the upper 70s and lower 80s through the weekend, bringing a more seasonable and pleasant start to fall.
The pattern looks steady into early next week, with no major storms expected. Residents should remain alert for any updated advisories if winds strengthen again along Lake Michigan.
Five-Day Forecast for Chicago, Illinois
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, high near 69.
- Thursday: 20% chance of showers before 1 p.m., breezy, high near 71.
- Friday: Sunny, high near 79.
- Saturday: Sunny, high near 81.
- Sunday: Sunny, high near 77.
