Green Bay, Wis. – Anyone planning to visit Lake Michigan beaches or head out on the water Monday should prepare for hazardous conditions as strengthening southwest winds generate high waves, dangerous currents and rough conditions for small boats.
According to the National Weather Service in Green Bay, a Beach Hazards Statement is in effect from 10 a.m. Monday until 7 a.m. Tuesday for portions of the Lake Michigan shoreline. Waves are expected to build to 3 to 6 feet, creating dangerous swimming conditions and an increased risk of rip currents and structural currents at piers and breakwalls.
A Small Craft Advisory is also in effect, beginning 7 a.m. Monday for Green Bay and 10 a.m. Monday for Lake Michigan, with advisories continuing into early Tuesday. Southwest winds of 10 to 20 knots, with gusts up to 30 knots, will create hazardous conditions for smaller vessels. Waves on Green Bay are expected to build to 1 to 4 feet, while Lake Michigan waves reach 3 to 6 feet.
Beachgoers along the Lake Michigan shoreline, including communities near Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Two Rivers and Sheboygan, are urged to stay out of the water where dangerous wave conditions exist. Even experienced swimmers can be quickly overwhelmed by strong currents.
Boaters should consider delaying trips until conditions improve and ensure all passengers wear properly fitted life jackets. The hazardous conditions are expected to gradually subside after daybreak Tuesday, but residents and visitors should continue monitoring the latest marine forecasts for any additional advisories.
