High Surf — Central Cook County, Illinois

2025-06-21 · Central Cook County, Illinois

Event narrative

A 27 year old female was boating with friends off of Grand Ave near Navy Pier on the afternoon of the 21st when she fell into the water. Friends made attempts to save her, throwing ropes, life vests, and even jumping in after her, but were unsuccessful. She was transported to a local hospital where she was pronounced deceased.

Wider weather episode

Strong winds on the 21st generated high waves and deadly currents on southern Lake Michigan beaches, resulting in several water rescues and a couple of fatalities. The Harrison-Dever Crib was regularly reporting wind gusts between 45 and 55 mph during the afternoon out of the southwest, with a peak gust of 62 mph.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1273185. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.