Chicago, Illinois – Waves up to 6 feet are battering southern Lake Michigan beaches Monday, creating a high swim risk that could prove deadly for swimmers and boaters along the shoreline.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, dangerous rip currents and strong wave action will persist through this evening, stretching from Waukegan down through Chicago and into northwest Indiana cities like Gary and Chesterton. All southern Lake Michigan beaches are under a Beach Hazards Statement, warning of life-threatening conditions that have caused drownings in similar setups.
Red-flag warnings were posted early Monday from Evanston to New Buffalo. Officials urge beachgoers to stay out of the water, off breakwalls and piers, and to obey all posted signs and lifeguard instructions. The hazard is especially dangerous for inexperienced swimmers or anyone underestimating the current strength.
This is one of the most widespread high swim risks so far this summer, exacerbated by gusty winds and persistent wave action pushing inland.
Conditions should begin to improve overnight, but additional alerts may be issued if waves remain elevated into Tuesday.
