MUNISING — The Alger County Sheriff’s Office reported today that it recently received information from local fishermen advising that an area known as the “Whirlpool” is presenting open water.

The Whirlpool is located in the west channel between Munising Bay and Christmas approximately one mile west of the Grand Island Landing Road.

This area is very difficult to see as a blanket of snow covers the open water, police said.

“Any person(s) venturing out onto the ice is encouraged to be mindful of the ice conditions as well as areas presenting open water,” Alger County Sheriff’s Office officials said in a news release.

The Alger County Sheriff’s Office as well as the U.S. Forest service is in the process of posting signage at the Grand Island Ferry warning all people of the open water.

“As always, the Alger County Sheriff’s Office encourages people venturing out on the ice to use extreme caution,” police said.