Lake Effect Snow Machines Turn On

WAUSAU, Wis. (WXCO) – It happens so fast, snow created simply by the Great Lakes themselves, but there are some specific things needed first.

Tis’ the time of year for the cold Canadian air to intrude into Wisconsin.

As the poles become colder, the winds become stronger this time of year. Earth is trying to balance temperatures with the equator. This is also when frigid cold air intrusions leak into the state. Sparking up something phenomenal, snow created simply by the Great Lakes themselves.

Called ‘Lake Effect’ there are a few special ingredients needed for this unique snow to form.

First, the air temperature must be at least 23 degrees colder than the water. Currently, Lake Superior sits at a balmy 45 degrees, with Lake Michigan hanging on to some heat at 50 degrees.

As north winds pull in overnight lows in the teens and highs below freezing this week, they will pick up steam from the unfrozen waters. Once this moist breeze hits land, it rises, forming clouds that will dump the frozen droplets as heavy snow downwind. Usually falling in a narrow band that produces 2 to 3 inches of snow per hour or more.

Areas like Hurley, Wisconsin typically pick up 200 inches of snow per year. That’s over 16 feet! Last year was troublesome though, with only 66″. This didn’t allow for winter rec activities to activate. Leaving snowmobile trails empty and trips canceled from out of state tourism. Something our Northwoods neighbors need, snowfall.

Last year was a El’ Nino pattern that kept our temperatures well above average. Only a few systems brought snow and it either wasn’t enough or it didn’t sick around long.

As we shift into a La Nina pattern, Wisconsin will get a few more cold shots and storms bringing nickel and dime snow shots. Of course we will still see major systems strike too. Which on average our state battles about 4 of those per season.

For the next few weeks, Lake Superior will be spitting out snow to the Northwoods. If a good base is built, snowmobile trails typically open in early December.