Beach hazard, thunderstorms possible today

Superior Electric Beach/Outdoors Report.

Labor Day weekend is upon us, the last weekend of the 2013 summer tourist season. Below are the current Lake Michigan shoreline surface water temperatures followed by the current weather, as of 2:10 p.m. Friday.

Lake Michigan water temperatures:

Stearns Park, Ludington: 72 degrees F

Ludington State Park: 67 degrees F

Summit Park: 71 degrees F

Charles Mears State Park, Pentwater: 71 degrees F

First Street Beach, Manistee: 63 degrees F

Little Sable Point: 71 degrees F

Friday weather:

The area is under a significant weather advisory through 3 p.m. Thunderstorms are expected to develop and move southeast around U.S. 10. The stronger storms will be capable of strong wind gusts up to 50 mph. Small hail, heavy rain and frequent lightning are possible. If the skies darken in your area, curtail any outdoor activities and seek shelter until 30 minutes after the storm has passed.

Area beaches are also under a beach hazard statement through Saturday morning. High wave action and dangerous swimming conditions are expected. Strong structural and longshore currents are also expected.

A cold front will push south through the area this evening. This afternoon south winds ahead of the front will build waves into the 3 to 5-foot range near Big and Little Sable points including all beaches in Mason and Oceana counties. See entire alert here. 

Ludington: Mostly cloudy with temperatures reaching 79 degrees F. Humidity: 76%; wind: southwest at 12 mph.

Scottville and Pentwater: Mostly cloudy with temperatures reaching 82 degrees F. Humidity: 76%; wind: southwest at 14 mph.