GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Memorial Day in West Michigan usually means beaches are packed, with swimmers enjoying Lake Michigan for the unofficial start of summer.
But this year, the National Weather Service (NWS) is encouraging beachgoers to stay cautious, as dangerous conditions are expected throughout the end of the day.
A Beach Hazards Statement was issued early Monday morning for Mason, Oceana, Muskegon, Ottawa, Allegan and Van Buren counties.
The NWS said you should avoid swimming or going on piers while the Beach Hazards Statement is in effect. Officials say strong currents can pull swimmers further into the lake, and high waves can sweep people off the pier. Waves are predicted to be at least four feet high, according to the NWS.
The warning is in effect until Monday evening.
This comes as West Michigan is seeing an unusually chilly Memorial Day, with the high temperature expected to sit at 65° with cloudy skies and chances for showers throughout the day. Winds are also gusting about 30 mph at times.
If you do go swimming and get caught in a rip current, don't panic. Flip onto your back and float with the current until it releases you. Then swim parallel to shore away from the narrow current.
You can keep an eye on the beach conditions with a livestream of the Grand Haven Pier:
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