Storm Warning Issued for Lake Michigan: Winds Up to 50 Knots and 17-Foot Waves Expected

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan has issued a Storm Warning for the southern open waters and nearshore areas of Lake Michigan. This alert indicates that severe weather conditions are currently observed or imminent in the specified maritime regions.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the southern open waters of Lake Michigan and nearshore waters extending from Sheboygan, Wisconsin, to Winthrop Harbor, Illinois. Specific areas 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
• Offshore zones including Whitehall, Pentwater, Grand Haven, Holland, and South Haven, MI

What You Should Do

Mariners are advised to take immediate safety precautions. The National Weather Service recommends that mariners remain in port, alter their course to avoid the storm, or secure their vessels for severe conditions. The combination of high winds and waves could capsize or damage vessels.

Expected Conditions

The region is bracing for significant maritime hazards:

• Wind: West winds between 25 to 35 knots, with gusts reaching up to 50 knots.
• Waves: Wave heights are expected to range from 12 to 17 feet.
• Visibility: Very strong winds may lead to reduced visibility.

Timeline

The Storm Warning is effective immediately and is scheduled to remain in effect until 10:00 PM CDT this evening, March 13, 2026.