South Bend, Ind. – Anyone planning to visit the southeastern Lake Michigan shoreline should rethink those plans as dangerous waves and life-threatening currents create hazardous swimming conditions from Tuesday night through Wednesday night. Officials are urging visitors to stay out of the water and away from piers as conditions worsen.
According to the National Weather Service Northern Indiana, a high swim risk is in effect for Berrien County, Michigan, beaches through Wednesday night, while LaPorte County, Indiana, beaches remain under a moderate swim risk Tuesday, with conditions expected to deteriorate by Tuesday night and continue into Wednesday. Northwest winds of 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph Tuesday night, will generate dangerous waves and powerful currents along the shoreline.
Wave heights in Berrien County are forecast to build from 3 to 5 feet Tuesday night to 5 to 9 feet from Tuesday night through Wednesday. In LaPorte County, waves are expected to increase from 2 to 4 feet Tuesday night to 5 to 8 feet by Tuesday night into Wednesday, significantly increasing the risk of rip currents and structural currents near piers and breakwalls.
Beachgoers are strongly encouraged to stay out of the water, avoid walking on piers and heed all posted warning flags and instructions from lifeguards and local officials. Even experienced swimmers can quickly become overwhelmed by the powerful currents expected along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Hazardous beach conditions are expected to persist through Wednesday night, and additional beach hazard statements may be issued if conditions continue or worsen. Anyone visiting the shoreline should monitor the latest updates from the National Weather Service before heading to the beach.
