Michael Howie

Fierce winds beginning Thursday are expected to create high waves and dangerous swimming and boating conditions all along Lake Michigan's South Shore through at least Friday, according to the National Weather Service.

The wind from the north, blowing cooler air, could create waves from eight to 10 feet tall at Lake, Porter and LaPorte county beaches, the NWS said, and rip currents in the water will have deadly force. Beachgoers are advised to stay out of the water, and the NWS classified the swim risk as "high."

The wind and waves will also create unsafe boating conditions. The NWS issued a small craft advisory in effect through Friday for Indiana's entire border with Lake Michigan.

"Inexperienced mariners, especially those operating smaller vessels, should avoid navigati

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