Duluth, MN – Boaters and swimmers on Lake Superior are being warned of dangerous conditions Friday, September 19, as strong northeast winds and high waves create hazardous waters across the region.
According to the National Weather Service Duluth office, gusts up to 30 knots and wave heights between 5 and 7 feet are expected through tonight into early Saturday morning. A Small Craft Advisory remains in effect for the western half of Lake Superior, along with a high risk of rip currents along shorelines.
Forecast data shows wind gusts peaking Friday afternoon and evening, particularly near Devils Island, Silver Bay, and the Western Lake Superior Buoy. Wave models indicate some nearshore areas could see waves over 6 feet before conditions begin to gradually improve late Saturday. By Sunday, calmer conditions with winds below 10 knots and waves under 1 foot are expected.
Officials caution small boat operators and inexperienced swimmers to avoid the water during this period. Rip currents are particularly dangerous near Duluth’s Park Point, the Twin Ports area, and other exposed beaches.
The NWS urges the public to monitor updated forecasts and heed all marine warnings. Local residents and visitors should expect rough conditions through Saturday morning before winds and waves subside.
