Watch Lake Michigan Waves Topple Manitowoc Lighthouse

MANITOWOC, WI -- When it comes to photography, it all comes down to being in the right place at the right time to capture the moment.

That moment came on a blustery Jan. 7 day for Wisconsin resident Ann Barbeau, who captured footage on Lake Michigan showing massive waves washing away the South Pier Light Navigational Beacon.

CHECK THIS OUT: The 20-foot tall tower was under control of the Coast Guard, which confirmed that the structure was wiped out during gusty southeast winds. https://t.co/mCn7Dhhylv

According to reports, the 20-foot-tall structure was toppled by about 8:30 a.m. Monday. It stood for decades on the western shore of Lake Michigan.

The National Weather Service issued a gale warning for Lake Michigan Monday as 12-to-15-foot waves pounded the shore. Wind gusts up to 50 mph were expected in the area where the lighthouse was located.

All that remains of the structure is the concrete base.

Here's a video showing the dramatic sequence of events that took out the Manitowoc navigational beacon.

And here's a video of the aftermath:

Image Via Google Street Map Image