The strong winds and resulting dangerous waves pose life-threatening risks to swimmers and beachgoers. Rip currents can carry individuals away from shore, and the absence of lifeguards after Labor Day increases the danger. The Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project reports 73 drownings this year, with 41 occurring at Lake Michigan. Residents and visitors are urged to avoid entering the water and to exercise caution near shorelines during the active warnings (Newsweek, 2026).