Special Marine Warning Issued for Southern Lake Michigan Nearshore and Open Waters
The National Weather Service has issued a Special Marine Warning for southern Lake Michigan until 5:30 PM CST as a strong thunderstorm brings 50-knot wind gusts to the region.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Chicago IL has issued a Special Marine Warning for the nearshore and open waters of southern Lake Michigan. The alert was triggered by radar-indicated strong thunderstorms moving through the area.
Affected Areas
The warning encompasses the following maritime regions:
- Nearshore Waters: Northerly Island to Calumet Harbor, IL; Calumet Harbor to Michigan City, IN.
- Open Waters: Lake Michigan from Wilmette Harbor to Michigan City, extending from 5 nautical miles offshore to Mid Lake.
- Specific Locations: Indiana Harbor, Calumet Harbor, Burns Harbor, Marina Shores at Dune Harbor, and Hammond Marina.
What You Should Do
Mariners are urged to move to safe harbor immediately. Small craft could be damaged in briefly higher winds and suddenly higher waves. Boaters should remain in port until the hazardous weather conditions have passed.
Expected Conditions
At 4:25 PM CST, a strong thunderstorm was located over Indiana Harbor, moving northeast at 50 knots. The primary hazard identified is wind gusts reaching nearly 50 knots. These winds are expected to cause a sudden increase in wave height, creating dangerous conditions for vessels.
Timeline
The Special Marine Warning is effective immediately as of 4:25 PM CST on March 6, 2026. The alert is currently scheduled to expire at 5:30 PM CST.
Source: NOAA Official Notice
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