Warning: 'Dangerous Conditions' As Waves Rise Over 8 Feet On Lake Michigan

waves on lake Mich
Photo credit (credit: National Weather Service - Grand Rapids)

(WWJ) Take heed if you're near, or headed to Lake Michigan on Monday.

The National Weather Service is warning of "dangerous condition" on Lake Michigan on April 13.

By late-morning, forecasters said, waves at at least one location were towering over 8 feet high. 

Here are the estimated wave heights from the NWS from just before noon:

  • Port Sheldon 8.5 ft
  • South Haven 7.5 ft
  • Bridgeman 7.5 ft.

Forecasters said beach and dune erosion were both a concern, and that flooding along lakeshore and rivers that drain into Lake Michigan was also expcted. Residents were urged to report any flooding to the National Weather Service. 

Lakeshore flooding is also expected Monday in Michigan's Thumb area (see map below). 

To the north, the NWS out of Gaylord said scattered rain showers would transition into snow, with temperatures gradually falling. Up to a foot of snow is expected in Northern Michigan. 

The main story both Up North, to the west and in metro Detroit, however, will be the strong, gusty winds. 

Winds ranging 60-70 mph are expected starting mid-morning across metro Detroit, which some fear could bring down trees and power lines. How long will it last? The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Advisory from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday. 

Learn more about the Detroit-area forecast HERE.