LUDINGTON — A Gale Warning remains in effect for the Lake Michigan shoreline from St. Joseph to Manistee, including the Ludington and Pentwater area, through early Thursday morning, according to the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids.
Forecasters reported west winds Tuesday of 25 to 35 knots (29 to 40 mph), with gusts up to 45 knots (about 52 mph), producing waves of 8 to 13 feet along the lakeshore. The weather service warned that these strong winds would create hazardous conditions for vessels, with potential for capsizing, damage, and reduced visibility.
Local observations from the Mason County Airport showed an average wind speed Tuesday of 13 to 17 mph, with gusts reaching 24 to 25 mph. Winds were slightly lower Monday, averaging 12 to 17 mph and gusting around 21 to 22 mph, and more moderate over the weekend with gusts topping out near 18 mph on Saturday.
Meteorologists attributed the high winds to a cold front moving across the Great Lakes. The frontal system brought showers and gusty conditions to the Ludington area Tuesday, with westerly flow intensifying as the system pushed east. The strongest winds were expected to continue through Wednesday before gradually easing late Wednesday night.
According to the National Weather Service, gale warnings such as this are common in mid- to late-October as colder air masses from Canada begin to move over the still-warmer waters of Lake Michigan, creating strong pressure gradients and frequent storm systems. Climatology data cited by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicate that “gale season” for the Great Lakes typically extends from October through December, when sustained winds of 34 to 47 knots (39 to 54 mph) occur more frequently than in other months.
While such events are not unusual for this time of year, the combination of sustained west winds and large waves continues to pose significant hazards for boaters and shoreline activity, forecasters said. Mariners are urged to remain in port, seek safe harbor, or secure their vessels until conditions improve.
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