FAST DOWNLOAD
The “Lake Effect” has resulted in an exceptional snowstorm, paralyzing part of the country, including Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania and New York – all regions bordering the Great Lakes.
As reported by 20 Minutes, the “Lake Effect” occurs when cold winds cross the relatively warm waters of the Great Lakes. Air masses are created that capture the moisture in the lakes, which then condenses into snow when they hit the cold lands downstream. The amount of snowfall, mostly concentrated in narrow but intense bands, then increases sharply.
Exceptional snowfalls
Because temperatures on the Great Lakes are currently higher than the seasonal average, the meteorological phenomenon gains in energy and power, leading to substantial snowfalls.
In some regions, snowfalls have reached 90 centimetres, and could even reach 2 metres by the end of the week. The consequences? Freeways are at a standstill, forcing drivers to spend the night in their cars or seek refuge in service stations. Heavy goods vehicles are also banned from certain main roads.
What about the future?
In the future, climate change could have a major impact on both the frequency and intensity of snowstorms associated with the lake effect.
Shorter winters and longer periods of ice could help intensify the phenomenon. In the long term, if temperatures continue to rise, the snow could turn to rain, threatening the regions concerned with major flooding.
Until the end of the week, and according to weather forecasts, snowfalls and strong winds are expected to continue to hit this part of the United States.
