A man rides a bike along a wave-battered lakefront in Chicago on Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021. (WTTW News)
With a forecast of waves as high as 12 to 18 feet on Lake Michigan and winds gusting 40 to 45 miles per hour Wednesday into Thursday, the National Weather Service has issued a warning for people to steer clear of the lakefront in the Chicago area and Indiana.
“Stay away from piers, breakwaters, parks, and trails along the lakeshore Wednesday and Thursday as the waves may sweep you in,” the agency cautioned.
Parks and trails are likely to be inundated with water from the battering waves and water will wash over piers.
The dangerous forecast prompted Chicago police, fire and emergency responders to hold a joint press conference Tuesday, urging people to “respect the lake” and keep out of the water, particularly with beaches no longer staffed by lifeguards.
Large battering waves of 12 to as high as 18 feet, combined with above average lake levels, and storm induced lake level rises will result in flooding along the Lake Michigan shoreline through Thursday. The more significant flooding is expected along the Indiana shore. pic.twitter.com/Pg9N89YvkF
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) September 22, 2021
A reminder that high waves will be occurring along the Lake Michigan shores today due to strong onshore winds. Avoid the water and near shore areas today. #ilwx #INwx https://t.co/4lk6vMJeg4
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) September 22, 2021
Contact Patty Wetli: @pattywetli | (773) 509-5623 | [email protected]
