US Coast Guard urges caution in the water along coastal Lake Superior

NEWS RELEASE
UNITED STATES COAST GUARD
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SAULT SAINTE MARIE, Mich. — Due to heavy rains and storms near the coastal Lake Superior region, the Coast Guard urges all boaters in the Keweenaw Waterway and Portage Lake region to avoid recreating on the water due to significant debris in the waterway caused by recent rain storms.

Additionally, paddlesport enthusiasts and boaters are reminded to safeguard any loose gear, such as paddleboards, life jackets, and paddles, as they could be a sign potential distress.  By securing these items, it prevents the rain from washing it into the open water and reduces false alerts. 

Paddlers should mark their gear with their name and phone number so that rescuers can more quickly notify the owners of the adrift gear and verify that there is no distress.

According the National Weather Service, numerous showers and thunderstorms are expected throughout coastal Lake Superior and may produce heavy rainfall through the night.

"We urge all boaters to check the weather forecast before deciding to recreate on the water," said Petty Officer 1st Class Andy Burns, a boatswain's mate assigned to Station Portage. "The water temperature is still very cold, and for anyone who falls into these cold waters, their trip can become deadly." 

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