WEST MICHIGAN — Strong winds will ramp up today, generating moderate and high wave heights and somewhat strong currents in Lake Michigan. The National Weather Service in Grand Rapids has issued a Beach Hazards Statement through tonight for Mason, Oceana, Muskegon, Ottawa, Allegan and Van Buren counties. A Small Craft Advisory has also been posted from St. Joseph to Manistee from 5 a.m. Thursday until 2 a.m. Friday.
Winds will be from the west through the day. By this evening, winds will diminish slightly as the sun sets and things calm just a bit. As many know, brisk winds from the west can generate a rip current risk, as well as structural and longshore currents. Please be safe!
Wind speeds will range between 15 to 25 mph, with wind gusts over 30 mph possible. This will generate wave heights to range between 3 o 5 feet from Grand Haven to South Haven (a HIGH BEACH HAZARD risk), and 2 to 4 foot waves north of Grand Haven and south of South Haven (MODETATE V+BEACH HAZARD risk).
In addition to moderate and high wave height, the strong currents will create dangerous swimming conditions. Make sure to check the color of the flags flying at individual West Michigan beaches. Yellow flags indicate caution is advised. Red flags mean do not swim!
For the latest forecast details, stay tuned with the FOX 17 Weather Team. Get the forecast at www.fox17online.com/weather.
