As Chicago shakes off the last traces of spring, the lakefront is once again poised to become the center of summer life.
Friday marks the unofficial start of summer as lakefront beaches officially open for the season, according to the Chicago Park District, which manages the city’s 26 miles of open and free lakefront.
The beaches are open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m., but swimming is only permitted when lifeguards are on duty from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the season.
Additionally, the Park District utilizes a system of colored flags to communicate whether beachgoers are allowed to hit the water on any given day.
A green flag means that there are no swimming restrictions and that swimming is permitted. A yellow flag means that a swim advisory is in place and swimming is allowed, but caution is advised. A red flag means that a swim ban is in place and swimming is not allowed, as conditions do not meet safe swimming standards.
Sadly, while the beaches may be welcoming guests officially on Friday, a Beach Hazards statement is currently in place for portions of Cook County, and swimming is currently prohibited, with red flags up at the beaches.
According to the National Weather Service, high wave action and dangerous currents are expected at Lake Michigan beaches on Friday, with waves expected to reach between 3 and 6 feet.
The NWS warns that swimming conditions on Friday will be life-threatening, especially for inexperienced swimmers.
