Ahhh, the good ole weather reports. Lake Erie is always a mystery when it comes to predicting the waves. If your boat is not big enough to handle 3-5's at any point in time, then you should be paying attention to the weather constantly and checking the lake before you head. I boated the last 10 years with an 18' open bow. Most of the time everything was good. Got caught a couple of times in water that made me somewhat uncomfortable. I was finally able to set up to a 28', but I still really watch the weather.

Anyway, before I go out, I check a couple of different sources.
My favorite site is this one. This link goes to 5 miles north of Eastlake, but you can click anywhere.
http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php

Second Favorite
http://www.erh.noaa.gov/ndfd/graphic...eWeek.php#tabs

Then I check the open water forecast
http://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/data/Foreca...US61.KCLE.html

And finally I go to weather.com and check out the hourly forecast paying attention to the forecasted wind speed.

When all else fails, check the lake yourself or stay home!

Hope these links help.
Scott