Beachgoers along the Lake Michigan shoreline are being warned to stay out of the water Sunday after strong winds and waves caused about two dozen boats to bow out of the annual sailboat race from Chicago to Mackinac Island, Mich.

The National Weather Service warned Sunday morning that life-threatening waves and currents are expected at the beaches. People visiting the beaches should stay out of the water.

The beach hazard statements for Lake and Cook counties in Illinois and Lake and Porter counties in Indiana were in effect until Monday morning. Swimming closures can be found at theChicago Park District andIllinois Department of Public Health websites.

Waves of 5 to 8 feet were forecast. Strong rip currents, which happen most often in low spots or breaks in sandbars, and strong structural currents thatform along piers can sweep people into deeper water, and both were expected Sunday.

Exposed beaches are more likely to experience the most significant wave and current impacts, according to the weather service. Impacts at beaches with protective breakwalls or jetties will be subject to the orientation of structures as well as wind and wave direction.

The conditions on the lake already have affected the Mackinac race. Race organizers said29 boats hadexited as of Sunday afternoon. That included Windquest, a decorated vessel owned by Amway heirs Dick and Doug DeVos.

Another boat, the High Priority 2, capsized in the overnight hours of Saturday and Sunday. Race spokeswoman Tracy Gladden said four sailors were rescued by a boat launched from a U.S. Coast Guard cutter.

Infinite Diversion, a 62-footer, was first to finish Sunday morning in the Cruising Division. That division left Chicago on Friday;the Racing Division fleet left Saturday. About 300 boats overall are competing.

First held in 1898, it's the oldest annual freshwater distance race in the world. Winners are determined based on a handicapping system.

The blustery weather on the lake, coupled with a slight chance of thunderstorms, is expected to give way to higher temperatures and more sunny skies for the rest of the week. As areas along theDes Plaines and Fox rivers continue to deal with flooding, a chance of thunderstorms is expected to return Tuesday.

Check the Tribune's weather page for more details and updates.

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Beach warnings along Lake Michigan shore as Mackinac race sees ... - Chicago Tribune