Chicago’s beaches officially opened Friday, but swimmers are being urged to stay out of the water as the National Weather Service warns of dangerous conditions along Lake Michigan’s shoreline.
High waves and potentially dangerous currents have prompted a beach hazards statement that remains in effect through Saturday afternoon, the weather service said. Waves could reach up to 6 feet high.
Life-threatening swimming conditions are expected to continue Saturday, especially for inexperienced swimmers, according to the NWS, which recommends people to remain out of the water and avoid venturing out onto piers, jetties, breakwalls and other shoreline structures.
More information about swim advisories can be found at cpdbeaches.com.
Friday marks the unofficial start to summer with Chicago’s 22 lakefront beaches opening. The beach season is from Friday through Labor Day. Lifeguards are on duty from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the season, according to the Chicago Park District.
Swimmers are asked to abide by the park district’s colored flags that indicate current swimming conditions. Green flags mean swimming is allowed; yellow flags indicate a swim advisory and to swim with caution; and red flags mean swimming is not allowed.
The weather service’s beach hazards statement extends to the entire Lake Michigan shoreline in Illinois. Rain is possible Saturday and Sunday in Chicago, then skies are expected to clear for Memorial Day, when the high is forecast for 76 degrees, according to the weather service.