Chicago, IL – Dangerous waves and powerful winds are creating life-threatening conditions on Lake Michigan, with boating strongly discouraged through this evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, a Gale Warning remains in effect until 9 p.m. Thursday along the Illinois and northwest Indiana shoreline, with south winds reaching 35 knots and waves building between 6 and 9 feet. A Dense Fog Advisory is also in place until 4 p.m. near the Illinois shore, reducing visibility to less than one nautical mile in some areas.
From Wilmette Harbor to Calumet Harbor and east toward Gary and Michigan City, hazardous conditions are intensifying. Strong winds are generating large, choppy waves capable of capsizing smaller vessels, while fog is making navigation difficult near Winthrop Harbor and the North Shore.
Conditions will shift slightly overnight, but remain dangerous as a Small Craft Advisory takes effect from 9 p.m. through 4 a.m. Friday, with southwest winds up to 30 knots and waves still reaching 5 to 8 feet.
Mariners are urged to remain in port and secure vessels immediately. Additional marine advisories may be issued if conditions persist into Friday morning.
