{"id":8639,"date":"2023-11-14T22:40:04","date_gmt":"2023-11-14T21:40:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lakebeyond.com\/?p=8639"},"modified":"2023-11-14T22:40:04","modified_gmt":"2023-11-14T21:40:04","slug":"why-is-lake-michigan-so-deadly","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lakebeyond.com\/why-is-lake-michigan-so-deadly\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Is Lake Michigan So Deadly"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The Mysterious Nature of Lake Michigan<\/h2>\n

Lake Michigan, the second-largest of the Great Lakes and the only one within the United States, is an unpredictable and sometimes deadly body of water. With more than a thousand deaths having taken place in its waters over the years, it begs the question: Why is Lake Michigan so dangerous?<\/p>\n

Chicago’s Expanding Shoreline <\/h2>\n

When European settlers first arrived in the area, Lake Michigan was situated much farther from the shore than it is now. As the city of Chicago grew and settlers built infrastructure and dug canals, the shoreline began to move closer to the lake. This has had a major effect on the lake’s environment, creating a unique mixture of both fresh and saline water that can be hard to navigate. <\/p>\n

Strong Currents<\/h2>\n

The unique combination of fresh and salty water has also affected the lake’s water temperature, with some areas being significantly warmer or colder than others. This temperature disparity can create strong currents, making it difficult to swim safely within the lake. It is these strong currents that have been responsible for some of the lake’s casualties, dragging unsuspecting swimmers out too far in a matter of minutes.<\/p>\n

Unexpected Storms<\/h2>\n

Lake Michigan’s weather is also far more unpredictable than many people might think. Unforeseen storms have often created treacherous conditions, even for experienced sailors and boaters. Not only are the waters incredibly choppy and dangerous, but the harsh winds and waves can also sink smaller boats with ease. <\/p>\n

Dangerous Undertow<\/h2>\n