Special Marine Warning Issued for Lake Michigan Nearshore and Open Waters Until 9:15 PM CDT

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan has issued a Special Marine Warning for the nearshore and open waters of Lake Michigan. This alert is effective immediately and remains in place until 9:15 PM CDT on March 10, 2026.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following geographic regions:

• Lake Michigan nearshore and open waters to mid-lake from North Point Light, WI to Winthrop Harbor, IL.
• North Point Light to Wind Point, WI.
• Wind Point, WI to Winthrop Harbor, IL.
• Lake Michigan from North Point Light to Wind Point, WI (5NM offshore to Mid Lake).
• Lake Michigan from Wind Point, WI to Winthrop Harbor, IL (5NM offshore to Mid Lake).

What You Should Do

Mariners and residents in the affected coastal areas are advised to move to safe harbor immediately. You should remain in a secure location until the hazardous weather conditions have passed. The NWS recommends avoiding the warning area entirely while the alert is active.

Expected Conditions

At 8:25 PM CDT, radar indicated a severe thunderstorm located over Racine, moving northeast at a speed of 40 knots.

• Hazard: Large hail.
• Impact: Large hail could result in structural damage to vessels and equipment.
• Current Path: The severe thunderstorm is expected to remain primarily over open waters as it progresses northeast.

Timeline

• Issued: March 10, 2026, at 8:25 PM CDT
• Effective: 8:25 PM CDT
• Expires: 9:15 PM CDT on March 10, 2026