Detroit, Michigan – Boaters and commercial vessels on Lake Huron are facing dangerous conditions tonight as gale-force winds build across the central and southern portions of the lake, creating hazardous waves and reduced safety for anyone on the water.
According to the National Weather Service office in Detroit/Pontiac, a Gale Warning is in effect from late Saturday night through Sunday afternoon for central and southern Lake Huron. Northwest winds are expected to strengthen to 20 to 30 knots, with gusts reaching 35 knots. Waves will rapidly build, with significant wave heights of 10 to 12 feet and peak waves approaching 17 feet in open waters.
The strongest impacts are expected from the central Lake Huron basin southward toward Port Huron and Harbor Beach, where conditions will be most dangerous for small craft and even larger vessels. A Small Craft Advisory is also in effect for portions of Saginaw Bay and nearshore waters, extending into Sunday night and Monday in some areas.
Mariners are urged to avoid non-essential travel, secure docks and moorings, and check vessel readiness before conditions deteriorate. Cold water temperatures increase the risk of hypothermia in the event of a fall overboard.
Winds and waves are expected to slowly diminish later Sunday, but additional marine advisories may follow if conditions remain unsettled into early next week.
