GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Curran Middleton is stationed at the Grand Haven Coast Guard Post.
"It's kind of uncommon, it was around 70, now it's around 50 degrees," said Middleton about Tuesday's water temperatures in Grand Haven. "So, it's a big change in the water temp. Makes it a little more dangerous."
While he's new to the post, he's familiar with the dangers of cold water.
"Hypothermia sets in a lot quicker. If without adequate protection, a couple hours in the water, you're going to be feeling real cold compared to a week ago," said Middleton.
Upwelling has pushed warm water away, bringing up deeper, colder water to take its place.
It's no secret that the Grand Haven Pier is a popular spot to jump off of in the summertime.
Middleton said for those who aren't aware of the cooler water temps, it may come as a shock, literally.
"That cold water will possibly shock your body a little if you're not ready for it," said Middleton. "I think your younger people, your kids, they might not be used to it or expect it. It'll take your breath away if it's cold enough, and then you might start to hyperventilate if you don't know how, like you're not expecting it."
Middleton has some advice for those who still want to brave the water heading into the holiday weekend.
"Tell people where you're going, what your plan is, just in case something happens, they know where you are or what your plan was, wear life jackets," he said. "That's your biggest thing that keeps people the safest."
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