Milwaukee, WI – Beachgoers in southeast Wisconsin are being warned of dangerous swimming conditions through Thursday morning as strong winds create hazardous waves and currents along Lake Michigan.
According to the US National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan, a high swim risk is in effect for Milwaukee, Racine, and Kenosha County beaches starting mid-morning Wednesday and lasting until early Thursday morning. Forecasters report north to northeast winds between 15–25 mph will push wave heights between 3 and 5 feet during this period.
The agency cautions swimmers to stay out of the water and avoid dangerous areas such as piers and breakwalls, where rip currents and crashing waves are strongest. These conditions significantly increase the risk of drowning and make rescue efforts difficult.
Lake Michigan frequently sees strong rip currents during periods of high winds, especially in the fall when weather patterns shift. Officials stress that even strong swimmers can be overpowered by the dangerous surf.
The National Weather Service urges residents to check beach conditions before heading out and to keep children and pets away from the shoreline during the advisory. The warning covers a high-traffic stretch of Lake Michigan from Milwaukee through Racine into Kenosha County, an area popular for fall lakeshore visits.
High swim risks are expected to ease by early Thursday, but forecasters recommend caution near the water until winds and waves subside.
