Monday, September 14–Tuesday, September 15: Lake Michigan Near Sheboygan May Turn Hazardous for Small Boats
Sheboygan County, WI, September 12, 2026. Boaters, anglers and charter operators near Sheboygan should watch for worsening Lake Michigan conditions beginning Monday night, September 14, and continuing into Tuesday, September 15.
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7-Day Weather Forecast
The National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan office said in an Area Forecast Discussion issued at 6:54 a.m. CDT Saturday, September 12, that Monday evening through at least Tuesday could bring increasing south-southwest winds and higher waves on Lake Michigan. Gales are possible over the open waters, and a Small Craft Advisory may eventually be needed for nearshore waters.
Where conditions may develop
The current nearshore forecast identifies zone LMZ643, covering Lake Michigan from Sheboygan to Port Washington. That forecast, issued at 11:10 a.m. CDT Saturday, September 12, directs boaters to monitor later nearshore and open-water forecasts for Monday through Wednesday.
Showers and thunderstorms may also occur during the Monday night–Tuesday period. The combination of stronger winds, higher waves and storms could make conditions more difficult for small boats, anglers, charter crews and anyone planning an extended trip away from shore.
What Sheboygan County boaters should do
The current NWS information does not establish a Small Craft Advisory or gale warning for Monday or Tuesday. The potential for future marine headlines means plans should remain flexible rather than relying on the Saturday forecast alone.
Before launching from Sheboygan County or extending a trip into open Lake Michigan waters, check the latest NWS marine headlines, the LMZ643 nearshore forecast and the open-water forecast. Be prepared to postpone a trip if an advisory, gale headline, thunderstorm threat or rapidly worsening conditions develops.
