Traverse City, Mich. – Thunderstorms and dangerous beach conditions are bearing down on northern Michigan today as a cold front sweeps across the region. Breezy southwest winds are pushing waves of 3 to 5 feet onto Lake Michigan beaches, creating a high swim risk through Wednesday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Gaylord, life-threatening rip currents are expected along the coast from Manistee through Emmet Counties, including Beaver Island. Residents and visitors are urged to stay out of the water as conditions remain hazardous until winds shift northwest later in the day.
Storms moving inland will keep skies unsettled across northern Michigan, with temperatures topping out in the mid-60s to low 70s before falling sharply into the 50s by Thursday. The NWS notes that while scattered showers linger daily, the next widespread rain event is most likely late Thursday night into Friday morning.
Travelers should be prepared for wet roads and reduced visibility during heavier downpours. Beachgoers are advised to avoid swimming, stay off piers, and use caution near the shoreline.
The storm pattern will keep northern Michigan cooler heading into the weekend, with chances for showers persisting. Additional alerts are possible if wave heights and winds intensify.
