Lake-Effect Snow Quiz
Explore the meteorological conditions, geographic factors, and regional impacts of this unique winter phenomenon (10 questions).
Lake-Effect Snow Quiz: Quick Study Notes
Lake-effect snow is a fascinating meteorological phenomenon common in regions downwind of large bodies of water, particularly the Great Lakes. This quiz explores the science behind its formation, the specific geographic conditions that enhance it, and its significant impact on local snowfall patterns and communities.
Key Concepts
Occurs when cold, dry air masses move over warmer lake waters, picking up moisture and heat. This leads to instability and localized heavy snowfall.
The orientation and large surface area of the Great Lakes provide the necessary “fetch” (distance of air travel over water) for significant lake-effect events.
Prevailing westerly/northwesterly winds deposit snow in narrow, intense bands on the south and east shores of the lakes, creating distinct snow belts.
A significant temperature difference (typically at least 13°C) between the lake surface and the air at 850 hPa is crucial for strong lake-effect snow development.
Key Takeaways
- Lake-effect snow forms when frigid air passes over warmer lake water, gathering moisture and warmth.
- The Great Lakes, especially Lake Erie and Lake Michigan, are prime locations due to their size and orientation.
- A substantial temperature difference between the lake and the overlying air (around 13°C) is key for potent events.
- Snowfall typically occurs in narrow, concentrated bands downwind, usually to the south and east of the lakes.
- These events can produce extremely heavy and localized snowfalls, often measured in feet rather than inches.
- The intensity and location of snowbands are highly dependent on wind direction and speed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes lake-effect snow?
Lake-effect snow is caused by cold, dry air masses moving across relatively warmer lake waters. As the cold air passes over the warm water, it picks up heat and moisture. This added heat and moisture destabilize the air, leading to convection, cloud formation, and eventual precipitation in the form of snow on the downwind shores.
Which Great Lakes are most affected by lake-effect snow?
All of the Great Lakes can produce lake-effect snow, but Lake Erie and Lake Michigan are particularly known for it. Lake Erie’s shallow depth means its water stays warmer longer into the winter, and its east-west orientation allows for a long “fetch” with prevailing westerly winds. Lake Michigan also has a long fetch and affects heavily populated areas.
Why does lake-effect snow occur downwind?
Lake-effect snow occurs downwind (typically to the south and east of the lakes) because the prevailing winds during winter months in the Great Lakes region are generally from the west or northwest. These winds carry the moisture-laden, unstable air from over the lake directly onto the downwind land areas, where the snow then falls.
How much snow can lake-effect events produce?
Lake-effect snow events can produce extremely heavy and localized snowfall. It is not uncommon for several inches to a foot of snow to fall in a few hours, and some intense events can drop multiple feet (e.g., 2-4 feet or more) of snow within a 24-48 hour period in specific snowbelts, while nearby areas receive very little.
Is lake-effect snow dangerous?
Yes, lake-effect snow can be very dangerous. The rapid onset and intense snowfall rates can lead to whiteout conditions, making driving extremely hazardous or impossible. The sheer volume of snow can also cause power outages, structural damage to buildings, and impede emergency services. Additionally, the cold temperatures associated with these events pose risks of frostbite and hypothermia.
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