Milwaukee, Wis. – Dangerous waves and rip currents are expected along Lake Michigan beaches today as storms and onshore winds build. Residents and visitors should stay out of the water, avoid piers and breakwalls, and expect hazardous conditions into Saturday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan, waves of 3 to 6 feet and strong currents are forecast from Sheboygan to Racine. Officials warn that swimming could quickly turn life-threatening. Breezy east winds overnight into Saturday will drive the most dangerous surf.
Scattered thunderstorms remain likely today with the heaviest activity after 4 p.m. near Milwaukee, Waukesha, and Ozaukee counties. Downpours could reduce visibility and create slick travel on I-43 and I-94 through southeast Wisconsin. Motorists should slow down during heavy rain and use extra caution during the evening commute.
Conditions improve by Sunday, but isolated showers remain possible. The start of the workweek brings another round of showers and a chance of thunderstorms Monday, keeping skies unsettled into early next week.
Beach hazards remain the most immediate concern, with structural and longshore currents expected. The NWS urges anyone near the shore to remain on dry land until conditions ease Saturday night.
Warnings remain in place through Saturday afternoon, with additional advisories possible if thunderstorms intensify by Monday.
Five Day Forecast for Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Saturday: Showers and thunderstorms likely, high near 74. Hazardous waves and strong currents.
- Sunday: Morning showers, then clearing, high near 75. Breezy at times.
- Monday: Showers and thunderstorms possible, high near 73.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, chance of showers, high near 70.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, cooler, high near 67.
