A Beach Hazards Statement is in effect along Lake Superior’s Twin Ports shoreline as high waves and strong rip currents create life-threatening swimming conditions.
The National Weather Service office in Duluth issued the statement, warning swimmers to stay out of the water from noon today through this evening.
Where the Danger Is Highest
The statement covers Carlton and South St. Louis counties in Minnesota, along with Douglas County in Wisconsin. Minnesota Point and Wisconsin Point beaches are specifically named as high-risk areas.
Forecasters say elevated wave heights are combining with strong rip currents to create dangerous swimming conditions along the shoreline today.
NWS Duluth described the risk directly.
Fog Adding to Morning Trouble
The beach hazard follows a foggy start to the day. Dense fog reduced visibility to near or under a quarter mile across parts of the Twin Ports this morning, prompting a separate Dense Fog Advisory.
NWS Duluth flagged the fog risk for Carlton and South St. Louis counties as the morning got underway.
Stay Out of the Water
Officials are urging beachgoers to remain out of Lake Superior entirely while the statement is in effect. Piers and breakwalls are especially dangerous, since waves can sweep people off the structures without warning.
Rip currents can pull even strong swimmers away from shore quickly, and rescues in cold, wave-driven water are especially difficult.
Safety Reminders
Anyone visiting Park Point or Wisconsin Point today should avoid entering the water, even in seemingly calm areas near the shoreline.
Drivers should also use caution given lingering fog risk earlier in the day, which can return quickly near the lakeshore.
