Marquette, Mich. – Boaters in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula should be cautious as dense fog continues to cover Lake Superior, making navigation dangerous on Tuesday morning. The fog is thick enough to reduce visibility to less than one nautical mile in several areas, creating hazardous conditions for anyone on the water.
Dense Fog Advisory in Effect
The National Weather Service in Marquette has issued a Dense Fog Advisory for the waters stretching from Ontonagon to Whitefish Point and Isle Royale National Park until 8 a.m. EDT.
For offshore zones from Portage Canal to Grand Marais, the advisory will remain in place until 11 a.m. The fog makes it difficult for mariners to see clearly, which can be especially risky for those who aren’t experienced in navigating through such conditions.
Small Craft Advisory for Afternoon Winds
In addition to the fog, strong winds are expected to increase throughout the day. A Small Craft Advisory will go into effect at 1 p.m. for waters between Eagle River and Manitou Island. These winds may gust up to 25 knots, and waves could reach heights of up to 4 feet. Such conditions are dangerous for smaller boats, and even experienced sailors should be extra cautious.
Tips for Boaters
The combination of fog and strong winds can be very tricky to handle, especially for less experienced boaters. Mariners are urged to take extra precautions, including using radar and fog signals for navigation.
Ensuring all navigation lights are on and avoiding travel when possible is important for safety. If you don’t have experience dealing with these conditions, it’s best to stay off the water unless absolutely necessary.
Weather Conditions in Early Summer
These kinds of weather patterns are common in early summer. The cold waters of Lake Superior mix with the warmer air, creating dense fog.
While it’s a typical occurrence, the combination of fog and winds makes it particularly hazardous for boaters. Keep an eye on weather updates, as additional advisories might be issued later this week if the conditions continue.
For anyone planning to venture out on Lake Superior on Tuesday, it’s important to stay alert, follow safety guidelines, and be prepared for the tough conditions ahead.
