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Great Lakes Water-Related Hazards
In the Great Lakes, we don’t have to worry about things like stinging jellyfish or tides. However, it is important to be aware of a variety of hazards like dangerous currents, extreme storms and possible floods, harmful algal blooms and boater safety. The best way to combat these dangers is to be prepared and know how to respond. This page provides an overview of the most common hazards encountered in the Great Lakes. To learn more, follow the specific links below. |
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Dangerous Currents
The Great Lakes produce currents that are sometimes dangerous to swimmers. Rip currents and channel currents are the two types of hazardous currents swimmers are most likely to encounter. The key to survival is learning what to do if you or someone else is caught in a current. See: Dangerous Currents |
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Blooming Algae
Algae and algal blooms are generally not harmful. However, certain varieties like blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) that potentially contain toxins can be harmful. When they grow rapidly they are referred to as Harmful Algal Blooms, or HABs. Harmful algal blooms can cause fish kills, foul up nearby coastlines and produce conditions that are dangerous to aquatic life, as well as pets and humans. See: When Blooms Go Bad |
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Don't Get Trapped
The Great Lakes support vibrant commercial fisheries. However, some of those fisheries use nets in open waters, which can be potentially dangerous if boaters are unaware of the nets. Be prepared by learning how to identify and avoid fishing nets. See: Know Your Nets |
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Water Levels and Weather Events
With more than 3,000 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, lake levels have a huge impact on Michigan's coastal communities and economies. Rapidly changing water levels and extreme weather events can present specific hazards. See: Climate and Weather |
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To learn about additional Great Lakes water-related hazards like lightning on the water and hypothermia, see: Upwellings
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