National Weather Service warns swimmers of dangerous water conditions along Lake Michigan

RACINE, Wis. (CBS58) -- There's a warning about the dangerous swimming conditions on Lake Michigan. Three children have drowned in Racine in less than two weeks.

"You see the signage up here, it's really cautioning people to stay away from this particular area, as least as far as swimming goes," Bradley Friend said. He is a captain with the Racine Sheriff's Office.

The National Weather Service is advising people to obey all signs and closures along Lake Michigan this weekend. U.S. Coast Guard Lt. Phillip Gutler says winds will be 20 to 30 miles per hour. Waves are expected to be four to six feet, potentially hitting eight feet.

"This is one of those situations that very easily could turn from a nice day out on the water to a very dangerous situation -- for not only yourself, but also if someone has to go and rescue you."

Counties affected are Ozaukee, Milwaukee, Racine and Kenosha.

Bradley Friend says people should always check weather conditions before ever venturing out into the water.

"There's nothing we can do to make this safe, we can put out additional signage, we can have more lifeguards and things, but it comes down to recognizing what the conditions are," Friend said. 

CBS 58 met a few people hanging out at North Beach on Thursday, July 1. They say they're taking caution while still enjoying the weather and view.

"When we were younger, we used to swim in the water all the time and the waves were twice as big, and now we are scared to go near the water," Lisa Peters said.  

"I'm looking at it and those are big, fast, choppy waves and I'm like get away from the water," Daniel Tellez said. He spent time with his children at the beach. 

Authorities are urging people to never swim alone and make sure lifeguards are near.