Lakeshore Flood Warning: Dangerous Waves Threaten Great Lakes Shorelines—Stay Alert Tonight

UPDATE — 26 Nov 2025 15:00 EST Residents along Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and north-central shoreline are bracing for a lakeshore flood warning that takes effect at 1 a.m. Thursday and lasts through early Friday. The National Weather Service (NWS) says gale-force northwest winds gusting 40-55 mph will pile 14- to 20-foot waves onto the ice-free shores of Lake Superior and northern Lake Michigan, pushing water across beaches, parking lots, and low-lying roads from Keweenaw to Luce counties. What to expect • Minor to moderate lakeshore flooding that could wash over M-28 near Whitefish Bay and flood parts of Houghton’s Lakeshore Drive. • Rapid beach erosion and potential damage to seawalls, docks, and coastal homes as storm-driven waves batter exposed shorelines. • Blowing snow and whiteout conditions inland, where a concurrent blizzard warning predicts snowfall rates up to 2″ per hour and drifts topping 3 ft across the western U.P.. Timing and peak surge Wave models show the highest water levels between 4 a.m. and noon Thursday, when sustained winds align longest across Lake Superior’s open waters. A secondary surge is possible Thursday evening as winds veer west, threatening Lake Michigan communities from Manistique to Ludington. Localized flooding may linger through Friday morning until winds ease below 25 mph and waves drop under 10 ft. Preparedness tips • Move vehicles, sandbags, and outdoor equipment away from shoreline streets and marinas tonight. • If you live within the first block of the lakeshore, be ready to cut power to lower-level outlets and follow any municipal evacuation notices. • Never drive through water covering a roadway; just 12″ of fast-moving water can carry most passenger cars. • After the surge, stay clear of piers and breakwalls—rogue waves can still sweep over cold, slippery concrete long after peak winds pass. Travel & Thanksgiving impact Holiday travelers using US-41, M-26, or M-123 should plan for detours and severe visibility reductions. Airports in Marquette and Hancock may see delays or cancellations as wind gusts exceed cross-wind thresholds for smaller aircraft. Looking ahead The NWS expects water levels to recede late Friday, but forecasters are tracking another low-pressure system that could regenerate lakeshore flooding early next week. Keep NOAA Weather Radio, local emergency apps, and MDOT road updates handy throughout the holiday period.