(WJW) – The National Weather Service is warning Lake Erie boaters and swimmers that, despite summer-like weather, it’s not a good day to be on the lake.
There are both a beach hazard statement and a small craft advisory in place for Saturday afternoon.
Beach Hazard Statement
According to the NWS, the beach hazard statement warns of a high risk of rip currents stretching across northern Ohio, including Ottawa, Erie, Lorain, Cuyahoga, Lake, and Ashtabula counties.
“Wind and wave action will cause currents on the lakeshore. Swimmers should not enter the water. Currents can carry swimmers away from shore through a sand bar and along structures extending out into the lake,” states the NWS.
The beach hazard statement is in effect from noon Saturday through late Saturday night.
Small Craft Advisory
A small craft advisory is also in effect on Saturday from noon until 2 a.m. on Sunday.
The NWS warns that winds of 15 to 20 knots are expected and waves could reach 3 to 6 feet.
The warning includes nearshore waters stretching from Maumee Bay, Ohio, to Ripley, New York.
According to the NWS, inexperienced mariners, especially those in smaller vessels, should avoid hazardous conditions.
Danielle Langenfeld
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