The National Data Buoy Center shares real time observations from a network of buoys and weather stations.
Before heading out on Lake Michigan, it’s a good idea to check wave heights, wind direction, water temperature and more.
NDBC Station 45174
Wilmette Buoy, IL
https://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/station_page.php?station=45174
NDBC Station OKS12
Oak Street, Chicago, IL
https://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/station_page.php?station=oksi2
NDBC Station WHR12
Waukegan Harbor, IL
https://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/station_page.php?station=whri2