Dangerous swim conditions expected in Lake Michigan; NWS warns of massive waves, strong rip currents

CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - The waters of Lake Michigan will be a place to avoid later today and through tomorrow morning.

The National Weather Service (NWS) says we can expect building waves with strong onshore winds behind a cold front. Waves are expected to be three to six feet high.

The NWS warns of dangerous swimming conditions and life-threatening currents.

There’s a Beach Hazard Statement for Cook and Lake Counties in Illinois, and Lake and Porter Counties in Indiana.

There have been multiple lake incidents in recent days, including drownings and rescues, when conditions were not as rough.

In Porter County, there was a rescue at Porter Beach that police called a near-drowning.

Two girls got into trouble and were pulled from the water by bystanders. One account said someone tossed a life ring to one of the girls “in the nick-of-time.”

Life rings will be required on Indiana beaches starting on July 1. They’re required in Chicago, as well.

The life ring used in Porter was purchased by the fire department and was installed in May. It was the first time it was used.

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