Crime & Safety
Memorial Day Weekend Prompts Reminders About Safety For Swimmers And Boaters On Lake Michigan
Lifeguards will join beachgoers starting Friday as beaches officially open for the season.
May 22, 2026
With this upcoming Memorial Day weekend marking the unofficial start to summer, water safety is top of mind for swimmers and boaters alike as Chicago's beaches prepare to open for the season on Friday.
Find out what's happening in South Sidefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
A beach hazards statement warning of high waves and dangerous currents along the Chicago lakefront is in effect through Saturday afternoon. A similar warning for boaters is in effect through Saturday morning.
Windy 50-degree weather did not keep people away from North Avenue Beach on Thursday, but larger crowds are expected this weekend as temperatures warm up.
