Cleveland, OH – Mariners across Lake Erie are being urged to remain in port today as gale-force winds sweep across the Great Lakes, creating dangerous wave conditions and poor visibility, according to the National Weather Service in Cleveland.
A Gale Warning is in effect from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday for both the open and nearshore waters of Lake Erie from Vermilion, Ohio, to Buffalo, New York. Winds are forecast to reach 30 to 40 knots, with gusts up to 45 knots and waves of 8 to 14 feet.
A Small Craft Advisory remains in effect earlier this morning for south winds 15 to 25 knots before conditions rapidly deteriorate later in the day.
Forecasters warn that strong west winds will cause hazardous waves capable of capsizing or damaging vessels, especially for smaller craft. Mariners are urged to seek safe harbor, avoid open waters, and secure equipment before winds intensify midmorning.
Conditions are expected to improve overnight, though residual choppy waves and gusty winds may persist into early Thursday.
