SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/aero-lake-effect-snow

What causes lake effect snow?

Cold air crossing warmer open lake water picks up heat and moisture, then dumps snow.

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  1. Warm air moving over a frozen lake
  2. Lake water evaporating on hot summer days
  3. Cold air moving over open, warmer lake water ✔

Why: When very cold air, often from Canada, blows across the open Great Lakes, the water warms and moistens the lowest air. That air rises, builds clouds and forms narrow snow bands downwind.

Huh, didn't know that: A strong lake effect band can drop 2 to 3 inches of snow per hour or more.

The dad joke
The Great Lakes are so generous. They give snow to everyone downwind.
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References

Answer: Cold air moving over open, warmer lake water. When very cold air, often from Canada, blows across the open Great Lakes, the water warms and moistens the lowest air. That air rises, builds clouds and forms narrow snow bands downwind.

  1. National Weather Service, Lake Effect Snow www.weather.gov/safety/winter-lake-effect-snow
    Lake Effect snow occurs when cold air, often originating from Canada, moves across the open waters of the Great Lakes.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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