Chicago, IL – Hazardous boating conditions are expected to continue across Lake Michigan through Thursday morning, with Small Craft Advisories in effect for the nearshore waters of Illinois, Indiana, and western Michigan, according to multiple National Weather Service offices.
Forecasters in Chicago, Milwaukee, Grand Rapids, and Northern Indiana warn that strong northwest winds up to 30 knots and elevated waves will create dangerous conditions for smaller vessels through at least 10 a.m. EST Thursday. The roughest waters are expected from Winthrop Harbor, IL, to Manistee, MI, including the Michigan City and St. Joseph areas.
Mariners are urged to remain in port, secure loose gear, and monitor weather updates. The National Weather Service also noted that hazardous conditions for small craft are likely to return Saturday through early next week, as another system brings brisk winds to the region.
Conditions are forecast to gradually improve Thursday afternoon as winds subside and wave heights diminish, though additional advisories may be issued this weekend.
For the latest marine forecasts, visit weather.gov/chicago or tune in to NOAA Weather Radio.
