Special Marine Warning Issued for Lake Michigan from Michigan City to St. Joseph

Weather Alerts high NOAA · · Lake Michigan (Indiana and Michigan)

The National Weather Service has issued a Special Marine Warning for Lake Michigan waters between Michigan City and St. Joseph until 7:15 PM EST as strong thunderstorms move through the area.

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Northern Indiana has issued a Special Marine Warning for portions of Lake Michigan. The alert is in effect until 7:15 PM EST on March 6, 2026.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following marine zones:

  • New Buffalo, MI to St. Joseph, MI
  • Michigan City, IN to New Buffalo, MI
  • Lake Michigan from Michigan City, IN to St. Joseph, MI, extending from 5 nautical miles offshore to the mid-line of the lake.

Specific locations impacted include New Buffalo and Michigan City.

What You Should Do

Mariners and those on the water should move to safe harbor immediately. Remain in a secure location until the hazardous weather conditions have passed. Small craft are especially vulnerable and could be damaged by the sudden onset of high winds and waves.

Expected Conditions

At 5:39 PM EST, radar indicated a line of strong thunderstorms extending from 11 nautical miles northeast of Indiana Harbor to near Burns Harbor and Gary. These storms are moving northeast at 45 knots.

  • Hazards: Wind gusts reaching nearly 50 knots.
  • Source: Radar-indicated.
  • Impacts: Expect suddenly higher waves and dangerous wind conditions capable of damaging small craft.

Timeline

The warning was issued at 5:40 PM EST and is scheduled to remain in effect until 7:15 PM EST this evening.

Source: NOAA Official Notice

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this weather alerts alert about?
The National Weather Service has issued a Special Marine Warning for Lake Michigan waters between Michigan City and St. Joseph until 7:15 PM EST as strong thunderstorms move through the area.
Which agency issued this alert?
This alert was issued by NOAA. The original notice is available at the source link at the bottom of this article.
How severe is this alert?
This alert is classified as "high" severity. Take precautions and monitor for updates.
What area is affected?
This alert affects Lake Michigan (Indiana and Michigan). Check with NOAA for the most current geographic scope.
Where can I find more weather alerts alerts?
Browse all weather alerts alerts on Areazine at areazine.com/weather/ for the latest updates from NOAA and other agencies.