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CHICAGO — Dangerous currents and 6-foot waves are expected in Lake Michigan Thursday, the National Weather Service warned.
A beach hazard message in effect from 4 a.m. Thursday through 5 a.m. Friday warns beachgoers to stay out of the water.
Fifteen to 20 mile per hour winds overnight Wednesday could create "dangerous, pounding waves" that are 3 to 6 feet high.
"Life-threatening" rip currents and structural currents could also occur, according to the alert.
Rip currents are powerful channels of water that can drag people from near shore to deeper water. Structural currents form near piers and breakwalls and also have a strong pull.
The high winds and waves should taper Thursday night, according to the National Weather Service.
