Storm Warning Issued for Lake Michigan: High Winds and Waves Up to 17 Feet Expected

Alert Details

A Storm Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Milwaukee/Sullivan WI. This alert indicates that severe weather conditions are imminent or occurring in the specified maritime areas.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the Southern Open Waters of Lake Michigan and Nearshore Waters from Sheboygan to Winthrop Harbor, IL. Specific affected zones include:

• Lake Michigan from Michigan City, IN to St. Joseph, MI (5 NM offshore to mid-line)
• Sheboygan to Port Washington, WI
• Port Washington to North Point Light, WI
• North Point Light to Wind Point, WI
• Wind Point, WI to Winthrop Harbor, IL
• Lake Michigan from Winthrop Harbor to Wilmette Harbor, IL
• Lake Michigan from Wilmette Harbor to Michigan City, IN
• Michigan coastal waters from Whitehall to Pentwater, Grand Haven to Whitehall, Holland to Grand Haven, South Haven to Holland, and St. Joseph to South Haven.

What You Should Do

Mariners are advised to take immediate safety precautions. The NWS recommends that mariners remain in port, alter course to avoid the storm, and/or secure their vessels for severe conditions to prevent damage or capsizing.

Expected Conditions

• Wind: West winds between 25 to 35 knots are expected, with gusts reaching up to 50 knots.
• Waves: Significant wave heights of 12 to 17 feet are anticipated.
• Visibility: Very strong winds and high waves may reduce visibility.
• Impacts: Conditions will be hazardous enough to capsize or damage vessels.

Timeline

The Storm Warning is effective starting at 10:00 PM CDT on Thursday, March 12, 2026. The warning is expected to remain in effect until 10:00 PM CDT on Friday, March 13, 2026.