For several days, an exceptional snowstorm linked to the “Lake Effect” phenomenon has paralyzed a large part of the United States in the regions bordering the Great Lakes, notably in Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania. and New York State.
What is the “Lake Effect”?
The lake effect, which caused this storm, is a weather phenomenon that occurs when cold winds blow across the relatively warm waters of the Great Lakes. These air masses capture moisture from the lakes, which then condenses in the form of snow when it reaches the cold lands downstream. This process amplifies the amount of snow precipitation, often concentrated in narrow but intense bands.
Currently, Great Lakes temperatures are warmer than the seasonal average, providing increased energy for this phenomenon. This combination of abnormally high water temperatures and penetrating arctic air creates the ideal conditions for exceptional snowfall.
Impressive figures and broken records
In some areas, snowfall accumulations have already exceeded 90 cm and could reach up to two meters by the end of the week. Cities like Watertown and Copenhagen in New York State, or Gaylord in Michigan, are among the hardest hit.
The seaside resort of Gaylord, located in northern Michigan, notably broke its daily snow record, established in 1942, with more than 60 cm in one day, reports the New York Times.
What consequences for residents?
The fallout from this storm is being felt heavily. In the most affected areas, hundreds of vehicles were immobilized, notably on the I-90 highway, which crosses Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York state. Drivers had to spend the night in their cars or at gas stations to wait for conditions to improve. The main roads, such as sections near Buffalo, have been closed to heavy goods vehicle traffic, the daily further indicates.
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In Buffalo, residents organized to clear meters of snow accumulated around homes and vehicles. Even football fans have not escaped these extreme conditions. The Buffalo Bills team mobilized its fans to clear snow from the stadium before a game, offering a reward of $20 an hour as well as hot drinks.
What developments in the future?
Scientists point out that climate change could alter the intensity and frequency of lake effect storms. Firstly, the warming of lakes, due to shorter winters and prolonged ice-free periods, could intensify this phenomenon. However, in the long term, if temperatures continue to rise, more precipitation could fall as rain increasing the risk of flooding.
Our file on meteorology
According to weather forecasts, snowfall is expected to continue throughout the week, with intensities varying depending on the winds. Areas near Lakes Erie and Ontario could receive another 60 to 90 cm of snow. At the same time, more violent winds expected on Wednesday and Thursday could worsen conditions.
