The National Weather Service at 10:06 a.m. issued a gale warning for southern Lake Michigan for this afternoon and evening, with predictions of high winds and high waves as winds strengthen throughout the afternoon. A small craft advisory was in effect ahead of the Gale Warning.
The Lake Michigan Gale Warning takes effect at 4 p.m. this afternoon until 1 a.m. Monday. Sustained gale force winds are forecast with gusts from the north up to 35 knots (approximately 40 m.p.h.) and wave heights of 8 feet. The National Weather Service reports an area of low pressure in southern Illinois and Indiana will combine with an area of high pressure across the Great Lakes to create the high winds.
Gale force warning winds are defined as winds of 34 to 48 knots (about 39 to 54 m.p.h). The purpose of gale warnings is to allow mariners to take precautionary actions to ensure boat safety operation, which requires experience and a properly equipped vessel.
Sunday’s weather forecast calls scattered rain with high temperatures in the 40’s. Heavier rain and 50’s are forecast in southern Illinois.