MACKINAC ISLAND, Mich. – Authorities in Northern Michigan are warning people about cold water temperatures and urging water safety after a Mackinac Island woman drowned this week.
The Mackinac Marine Rescue and the Mackinac Island Recreation Department on Tuesday issued a joint statement urging people to avoid the water surrounding the island unless properly prepared. Officials said there are “hidden hazards around” Mackinac Island, including cold water and dangerous currents.
That cold water is common even during the warm summer months. According to the groups, surface water temperature around the island is usually in the high 30s in early May, and in the high 60s by late August. Deeper water actually remains at about 45 degrees year-round, and can “surface at any time, even on the warmest days,” the statement said.
"Hypothermia can set in quickly. Faster than you would expect on a warm day. A low body temperature can cause excessive shivering, slowed breathing, mumbled speech, confusion, drowsiness and the inability to swim,” authorities said. “Given these averages, on a calm, sunny, non-windy day you would expect to be in the water for 10-15 minutes before you start to lose some of your mobility. Add wind, waves and cooler air temperatures [and] your time drops quickly.”
The warning came just after a 22-year-old Mackinac Island woman drowned off the island’s coast on Monday. Michigan police said the woman was on an inflatable paddle board and fell into the water, according to local reports.
At least one witness reportedly saw the woman call for help and subsequently called 911. First responders rescued the woman from the water and took her to the hospital, where she later died.
Mackinac Island authorities urge people to use and/or wear proper floating devices when in or near the water. Officials said most drownings happen “when people aren’t wearing life jackets,” and warned that hypothermia “can set in quickly.”
"Tell people where you are going and how long you expect to be out. Bring a whistle. Pay attention to the weather conditions. Even moderate winds can make the lake tricky to navigate. IF YOU ARE UNSURE DO NOT GO,” authorities wrote.