Gaylord, Mich. – Swimmers along parts of Lake Michigan are being urged to stay out of the water today as life-threatening currents and waves as high as five feet build along beaches near western Mackinac County and Beaver Island. The National Weather Service in Gaylord warns that rip currents and strong surf could make conditions dangerous through Tuesday evening.
According to the weather service, most of northern Michigan will remain dry with only a small chance of showers across the eastern Upper Peninsula and along the northwest lower lakeshore. High temperatures will range from the upper 60s to mid-70s. While skies clear in many areas, high swim risk remains a top concern for anyone near Lake Michigan beaches.
Travelers and beachgoers are advised to avoid entering the water, especially in areas flagged for dangerous currents. Waves between three and five feet are expected, creating powerful undertows that can quickly overwhelm swimmers. The National Weather Service advises staying onshore, knowing conditions before heading out, and avoiding piers where waves may crash over.
Northern Michigan will see improving weather from Wednesday into the weekend with highs rising into the 70s and 80s under mostly sunny skies.
Five Day Forecast for Gaylord, Michigan
- Tuesday: High 66–75, isolated showers in eastern Upper Peninsula, high swim risk on Lake Michigan.
- Wednesday: High 69–78, slight shower chance east, dry elsewhere.
- Thursday: High 69–78, mostly sunny.
- Friday: High 71–80, mostly sunny.
- Saturday: High 71–80, mostly sunny.
