(WWJ) As the number of drownings in Lake Michigan has jumped this summer, swim warnings have been posted along parts of west Michigan's shoreline today.
The National Weather Service says large waves and strong currents will make swimming dangerous north of South Haven.
The warning takes in Saugatuck, Holland, Grand Haven, Muskegon, Pentwater, Ludington and Manistee. Forecasters say waves may also be over piers and could sweep people into the lake.
The warnings come as statistics from the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project show an 80% jump in Lake Michigan drownings this year.
So far in 2019, 27 people have died in the lake. There were 15 drownings at this time last year.
There have been numerous rescues in recent weeks and situations where even strong swimmers have gone into the water and never been seen again.