An alert was issued Thursday warning beachgoers in the Chicago area to stay out of the water has been extended until Saturday night.
The Beach Hazards Statement went into effect 3 p.m. Thursday and warns of life-threatening and waves and currents at beaches across the area, according to the National Weather Service.
The dangerous conditions are expected to build quickly during the afternoon hours and "persist through at least early Saturday," according to the alert.
The statement warns of wave heights of up to 8 feet and strong rip currents and structural currents.
"People visiting the beaches should stay out of the water," the alert states.
As of Thursday morning, most Chicago Park District beaches remained open, but at least two were under a swim ban and five others under a swim advisory. Check for updates on Chicago beaches here.
The Great Lakes Surf Rescue project says at least 22 people have drowned in Lake Michigan this year.
