Duluth, MN – Swimmers and boaters are being urged to use caution today as elevated waves and dangerous rip currents continue along western Lake Superior. The National Weather Service (NWS) says that while winds are gradually calming, significant wave energy remains on the lake and will affect coastal conditions through Saturday afternoon.
According to the NWS Duluth office, wave heights may appear lower in open water as conditions settle, but the energy will translate into powerful breakers along the shore. This is expected to create hazardous conditions, especially at Minnesota and Wisconsin Point beaches. Small Craft Advisories remain in effect for mariners until later today.
The Marine Forecast issued early Saturday morning shows waves of two to four feet in several nearshore zones, with maximum swells reaching up to six feet in some locations before tapering off by evening. Officials warn that the energy stored in the lake can cause waves to break with greater force in shallow areas, increasing the risk of rip currents and shoreline erosion.
Beachgoers are advised to avoid swimming in unguarded areas and to stay alert for rapidly changing surf conditions. Boaters operating smaller vessels are strongly encouraged to delay trips until waters calm further.
This advisory comes at a time when late-summer visitors are still frequenting Lake Superior beaches and harbors. Officials stress that even strong swimmers can be pulled offshore quickly in rip current conditions.
