High waves highlight August dangers on Lake Michigan

After a calm morning, wave heights built to 3 to 5 feet on the eastern side of Lake Michigan Tuesday evening. 

August is a dangerous month on Lake Michigan and the rest of the Great Lakes. Last year, almost 20 percent of drownings happened during the month of August. Besides the frequent cold fronts during August, many lifeguards are not patrolling the beaches past the middle of the month. 

Conditions on Lake Michigan beaches should be calmer by Wednesday and for the rest of the week.