MILWAUKEE — After an abnormally high number of foul-weather related deaths on Lake Michigan this year, the Coast Guard urges everyone participating in waterfront activities along the lake this weekend to use extreme caution.
The National Weather Service is forecasting hazardous weather for all of Lake Michigan over the weekend.
North to northwest winds are expected to gust to more than 40 knots across the lake, and waves will be building to more than 10 feet. This will increase the likelihood of dangerous waves and strong currents, especially along structures, piers and near river outlets.
While docks, breakwalls, piers and rocks are seemingly ideal places to take pictures or video of storms, Coast Guard units on Lake Michigan have responded to numerous cases involving people swept off of a wall or pier by rough seas this year. Links to press releases about some of those responses are listed below.
- Aug. 22, 2016: Coast Guard crew enters water; saves two lives
- July 10, 2016: Coast Guard assists in rescue of man in Lake Michigan near Michigan City
- Feb. 26, 2016: Coast Guard warns sightseers of high waves, strong wind after man is swept into Lake Michigan
- Sept. 20, 2015: Coast Guard, Indiana DNR end search, man's body recovered
Those willing to brave the weather are encouraged to stay a safe distance from the water, especially in areas near breaking waves.
“While the large waves are always impressive to watch, the safety of the public remains our number one priority,” stated Coast Guard Cmdr. Leanne Lusk, chief of response at Coast Guard Sector Lake Michigan.