Sturgeon Bay, Wis. – High waves and rip currents along Lake Michigan have prompted a Beach Hazards Statement for Door County, with dangerous swimming conditions expected through 4 a.m. Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Green Bay, strong currents and waves pose a serious threat to swimmers and anyone near the water along eastern Door County. The advisory includes popular spots like Rock Island State Beach, Baileys Harbor, and Whitefish Dunes Beach.
The combination of elevated wave action and unstable nearshore currents can quickly overwhelm swimmers, even in shallow water. Officials warn that the surf could also sweep people off piers or rocks.
Anyone planning late-night outings or early-morning shoreline visits should stay out of the water and avoid walking near wave-exposed edges. Life-threatening conditions may continue briefly past the advisory expiration as waves subside.
Conditions are expected to improve after sunrise Thursday, but another round of wind-driven waves may return later this week if onshore flow increases.
