Dangerous Ripcurrents Prompt Beach Warning In Evanston

EVANSTON, IL — Dangerous swimming conditions at Cook County beaches prompted officials to issue a warning to stay away from the water on Thursday.

The National Weather Service issued a Beach Hazards Statement through Thursday afternoon and may extend it depending on how fast waves subside. Forecasters said waves are expected to reach the 3 to 5 foot range and dangerous currents will make it dangerous to swim at the beach, the weather service said.

"Swimming conditions will be life threatening, especially for inexperienced swimmers," the National Weather Service said. "Remain out of the water to avoid dangerous swimming conditions and do not venture out onto piers, jetties, breakwalls, or other shoreline structures."

Last month, 17-year-old boy who was swimming late at night in Evanston died after going underwater and not resurfacing.

The boy was reported missing after 8 p.m., prompting a multi-agency search that utilized drones and a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter.

The boy was located over an hour later, 30 yards off the break wall, and was later confirmed to have died.

Another swimmer was reported missing in Highland Park last weekend and was never found, according to authorities.