Severe Thunderstorm Prompts Special Marine Warning for Lake Michigan Waters

Photo byNational Weather Service

Dangerous Conditions Expected for Boaters Near Manistee and Pentwater

The National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, MI, has issued a Special Marine Warning for nearshore and open waters from Pentwater to Manistee, MI, effective until 1:45 AM EDT. Boaters in the area are advised to take immediate action to ensure their safety.

Hazardous Weather Conditions

• Severe Thunderstorm: At 12:49 AM EDT, a severe thunderstorm was detected 16 nautical miles northwest of Manistee Light, moving southeast at 25 knots.
• Hazards: Wind gusts up to 40 knots and large hail.
• Impact: Small craft could be damaged by briefly higher winds and suddenly higher waves. Structural damage is also possible due to large hail.

Affected Locations

• Ludington Light
• Big Sable Point Light

Safety Precautions

Boaters are advised to:

• Move to Safe Harbor: Immediately seek shelter in safe harbor as gusty winds and high waves are expected.
• Avoid Open Water: If caught on the open water, stay below deck if possible and keep away from ungrounded metal objects to avoid lightning hazards.

Additional Marine Weather Statement

A concurrent marine weather statement from the National Weather Service in Gaylord, MI, remains in effect until 1:45 AM EDT for Lake Michigan waters from Point Betsie to Manistee, MI. This includes both nearshore and offshore waters.

• Severe Thunderstorm: At 1:01 AM EDT, the storm was located 8 nautical miles northwest of Manistee Light, moving southeast at 35 knots.
• Hazards: Wind gusts of 34 knots or greater and large hail.
• Impact: Potential damage to small craft and structural damage from large hail.

Areas of Impact

• Portage Lake
• Williamsport
• Manistee

Boaters in these areas should move to safe harbor until the hazardous weather passes.

Weather Details

• Coordinates:
• • Latitude: 4426 N to 4383 N
  • Longitude: 8635 W to 8692 W
• Storm Movement: Moving southeast at 25-35 knots.

Preparedness Actions

Stay informed by monitoring local weather updates and follow the advice of the National Weather Service. Take all necessary precautions to protect life and property during these severe weather conditions.