High Waves, Currents Lead To Lake Michigan Beach Hazard Statement

CHICAGO — Life-threatening swimming conditions are expected Thursday at Lake Michigan beaches, the National Weather Service warned.

Waves of up to 3 to 6 feet are anticipated in northern Cook County, according to a beach hazard statement.

Beachgoers were instructed to refrain from walking out onto shoreline structures like piers, jetties and breakwalls and to stay out of the water to avoid the dangerous conditions.

Conditions will be especially dangerous for inexperienced swimmers, according to the NWS.

Local park districts announced that beaches in Chicago, Evanston, Glencoe, Highland Park, Lake Forest and Wilmette are closed for swimming. The Winnetka Park District has also canceled beach day for its summer camp for children aged 3-6.

There have been 16 confirmed drownings in Lake Michigan in 2021, as of Monday, according to the nonprofit Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project. Of those, five have been in Illinois.

The hazard statement will remain active through 4 a.m. Friday, according to the NWS.

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