Detroit, MI – The National Weather Service (NWS) Detroit/Pontiac has issued a Gale Watch for the Michigan waters of Lakes Huron, St. Clair, and Erie beginning Wednesday morning, November 26, and lasting through Friday morning, November 28. Forecasters warn of sustained winds between 30 and 35 knots, with gusts up to 45 knots expected across the Great Lakes region.
According to the NWS Marine Forecast, the strongest winds are likely from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday night, when southwest gales are expected to develop and continue into early Friday. Mariners on Lake Huron could encounter waves between 12 and 15 feet, with occasional peaks nearing 22 feet, creating extremely hazardous conditions for smaller vessels.
The Gale Watch covers:
- Northern Lake Huron: 10 a.m. Wednesday–7 a.m. Friday
- Central & Southern Lake Huron: 7 a.m. Wednesday–10 a.m. Friday
- Lake St. Clair and Western Lake Erie: 7 a.m. Wednesday–1 a.m. Friday
Residents and boaters are urged to avoid unnecessary travel on the lakes during the watch period and to secure vessels ahead of the approaching system. Conditions are expected to gradually improve by Friday afternoon as winds subside.
