Beach Hazard in effect for Chicago area beaches

CHICAGO (WLS) -- With the holiday weekend approaching, the National Weather Service is warning residents to stay out of the water at Chicago area beaches.

A Beach Hazard is in effect until 6 p.m. for beaches in Cook and Lake counties in Illinois and noon central for beaches in Lake and Porter counties in Indiana.

In Lake Michigan, five to seven foot waves are forecast, along with strong rip and structural currents.

The NWS warns that strong rip currents can sweep swimmers away from the shore into deeper water. Structural currents form around piers and can drag swimmers under the pier.