Storm Warning Issued for Lake Michigan Coast from Michigan City to St. Joseph

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Northern Indiana has issued a Storm Warning for the southeastern Lake Michigan shoreline. This severe marine alert is part of a series of hazardous weather notifications, including Gale Warnings, affecting the region’s coastal waters.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers the coastal waters from Michigan City, Indiana, to St. Joseph, Michigan, including the area near New Buffalo, Michigan.

What You Should Do

Mariners are advised to take immediate precautions. The National Weather Service recommends that mariners remain in port, alter course to avoid the storm area, and/or secure their vessels for severe conditions. The expected conditions pose a significant risk of capsizing or damaging vessels and will likely reduce visibility to dangerous levels.

Expected Conditions

Conditions will vary throughout the alert period as the system moves through the area:

• Storm Warning Period: West winds of 30 to 35 knots are expected, with gusts reaching up to 50-knot storm force. Waves are forecast to reach heights of 7 to 12 feet.
• Gale Warning Periods: During the surrounding Gale Warnings, winds will range from 20 to 30 knots with gusts up to 40 knots. Waves during these periods are expected to range between 4 and 11 feet.

Timeline

The weather event follows a specific progression on Friday, March 13, 2026:

• Initial Gale Warning: Effective from 11:00 PM Thursday until 5:00 AM EDT Friday.
• Storm Warning: Effective from 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM EDT Friday.
• Secondary Gale Warning: Effective from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM EDT Friday.