Gale watch issued for Lake Michigan; Coast Guard urges caution

A gale watch has been issued for Lake Michigan this weekend, and the Coast Guard is advising visitors to stay off rocks, jetties and piers, as high waves and heavy surf can unexpectedly sweep a person into the water.

The watch is currently in effect from Friday morning until Sunday morning.

According to the National Weather Service, a gale watch is issued when the risk of gale force winds of 39 to 54 mph has significantly increased but the specific timing and/or location is still uncertain.

Even after hazardous weather patterns have moved through the area, it can still take an additional day for lake conditions to calm, according to a Coast Guard news release.