© 2026 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Waves, Wind Pound Lake Michigan Coast, Erode Properties

Lake Michigan
Amanda Barberena
/
WKAR File Photo

Property owners and local governments are assessing the damage from a day of relentless waves and high winds along Lake Michigan in western and northern Michigan.

The National Weather Service says wind speed exceeded 50 mph Wednesday up and down the coast. Waves crashed into piers and lighthouses, drawing spectators with cameras to see the spectacle.

Tom Durant, a 76-year-old in South Haven, calls it a "once-in-a-lifetime thing."

Near Grand Haven, homeowner Paul Griffeth says he's lost at least 80 feet of beach due to high water and rough weather. In Manistee, the Coast Guard station was cut off due to flooded roads. Karen Hudson, who has a condo near the water, says the lake is "angry."

Paul Swidorski, who works for an excavation company, says the amount of work this year is "off the charts" as property owners seek help to protect homes.

With federal funding eliminated, WKAR relies more than ever on community support to sustain essential services that remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan. Your support helps shape what comes next for public media in our region. The best way to support WKAR is by becoming a sustaining member today or by upgrading your current gift. Support WKAR TV Here | Support WKAR Radio Here.