Michigan City, Ind. – Beachgoers and boaters along northern Indiana’s Lake Michigan shoreline should be on alert tonight into Monday morning as conditions favor the development of waterspouts. The National Weather Service in Northern Indiana said the threat is highest over southern Lake Michigan, particularly nearshore waters stretching from Michigan City westward.
According to the Weather Service, late summer and early fall are prime months for waterspouts as cold air moves over warm lake waters. While most waterspouts stay offshore, forecasters warn they can occasionally drift toward beaches. Anyone on or near the water is urged to move to shelter immediately if a funnel cloud is spotted approaching land.
Mariners are advised to steer at a right angle away from a waterspout’s path rather than attempting to outrun it. Beach visitors should avoid the water and prepare to take cover until the storm risk clears.
The greatest chance for development remains overnight through early Monday, though isolated waterspouts could linger into the afternoon as unstable air lingers over the lake. Additional advisories may be issued if conditions persist.
