What Hazards Occur From Lake-Effect Snow?

Lake-Effect Snow by the Numbers

• Cold arctic air blowing over relatively warm open water causes clouds to build. These clouds move downwind and quickly begin releasing their moisture in the form of lake-effect snow. This setup generally occurs after the passage of a storm system. The snowfall rates from these events can be up to six inches per hour. Snow can fall like this for days on end, as long as the winds are oriented correctly. Lake-effect snowstorms are unusual because the heaviest snow occurs in a long narrow band. On either side of that band, sunny skies are the rule.

Traffic Snarls

• Clear skies can transform into a lake-effect blizzard in moments. Pileup traffic accidents have occurred as a result of sudden squalls moving in from the Great Lakes. When snow is predicted, be ready to slow down and pay attention to other motorists. Plan an alternate route if possible. Better yet, don't travel when lake-effect snow is underway. Nothing is more important than your own safety.

Whiteout

• The intense snowfall rates from a lake-effect event can make it impossible to see more than a few feet in any direction. Getting caught outside in whiteout conditions can be deadly. Strong winds can pull the heat from your body, while the heavy snow can take away all sense of direction. Hypothermia, or the dangerous loss of body heat, can impair judgment. Finding shelter is critical to surviving the elements. The best advice is simply not to be outside and exposed when whiteout conditions are forecast.

Cabin Fever

• Several feet of snow can keep you at home for long periods of time. Boredom may not sound like a hazard, but it actually can be very bad for your health. If you don't have activities to keep your mind occupied, depression and moodiness can be the result. Even more dangerous is the threat of power outages during a lake-effect storm. The heavy snow makes it harder for utility companies to do their jobs, so an outage may last longer than normal. Running short of food or water is also a hazard if you have not planned for the worst.

Being Prepared

• The best way to avoid the hazards of lake-effect snow events is to be prepared. This means knowing the weather forecast and planning your day accordingly. Don't go on a road trip when whiteout conditions are likely. Keep plenty of bottled water and canned goods in your home. Warm blankets, candles and an alternative heat source are also essential supplies for a harsh winter climate.