Chicago, Illinois – Rough surf and powerful currents are keeping Lake Michigan beaches off-limits across the Chicago area, with a Beach Hazards Statement extended through Friday afternoon. Swimmers and sunseekers are being warned to stay out of the water as waves reach up to 7 feet, posing life-threatening risks.
According to the National Weather Service, high wave action and dangerous rip currents will impact Lake, Northern Cook, and Central Cook counties in Illinois, as well as Lake and Porter counties in Northwest Indiana, through at least 3 p.m. Friday. Lifeguards are enforcing bans and advisories across the city’s lakefront, with all swimmers urged to check for local alerts at www.cpdbeaches.com.
The most hazardous conditions are expected on exposed beaches, piers, and breakwalls from Evanston to Gary, Indiana. Chicago Park District officials and emergency managers are urging everyone to remain off shoreline structures and avoid entering the water, especially inexperienced swimmers or children. Water rescues have already increased this summer, and similar wave action last July led to multiple emergency responses.
Residents are advised to avoid non-essential travel along the immediate lakefront, watch for flooding in parking lots and low-lying paths, and charge devices in case of power outages near the shore. Waves and dangerous currents are expected to subside by Friday evening, but new advisories could follow if winds shift.
Warnings remain in effect through Friday afternoon; check for updates before heading to the lakefront.
