Boaters along Milwaukee’s lakefront are dealing with new hazards thanks to record-high Lake Michigan water levels.
Boater Kim Tomaselo has been navigating the waters around Milwaukee for more than three decades. “This is the worst I've seen it in the 30 years I've been out on the lake,” said Tomaselo.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said the water level on Lake Michigan is 31 inches above the average for July.
This means some landmarks such as the breakwater and other navigational points for boaters are under water in some locations.
Tomaselo said "when you’re out here, you cant see that wall. For boaters that are unfamiliar with the area, it’s an accident waiting to happen.”
Pete Dari, the operations manager at local boat repair and storage business Skipper Bud’s, said the business has seen boaters damage their crafts by hitting the break wall.
Skipper Bud’s also rents boats and advises customers to be on the lookout for obstacles.
"For boaters that are unfamiliar with the area, it’s an accident waiting to happen.” — boater Kim Tomaselo
Dari offers a simple piece of advice. “Go where other people are going. Try and stay away from places that no one is at because there is usually a reason for that.”
The Army Corps of Engineers forecasts that Lake Michigan could recede by 1 inch next month.
