Northeast Region: Lake Effect Snow (LES)
This week we will be talking about the effects and severity of this weather concern. For those who have not heard of or been in lake effect snow, a basic explanation is as follows: during the fall and winter months, areas around the Great Lakes are hit with a drastic increase in the amount of snowfall and dangerously lower temperatures. “Cold air from Canada travels over the waters of the Great Lakes and the warmth of the water as well as increased moisture increases snowfall” (Gaylord, M.I. N.D.). Another hazard that comes with LES is a drastic decrease in visibility. Living in the Northeast region of the United States comes with the expectation that you will be exposed to snow and cold, however, I can personally attest that LES is like no other snow there is. My first month in Fort Drum, which is located in upstate NY, we received 74” of snow due to a massive LES front when there were only projections of about 48”. Temperatures dropped to a low of -18
degrees, which is dangerous in itself. Some of the other major hazards that come with LES are little to no
visibility on roads, and even seeing what is in front of you while walking/shoveling snow. Hypothermia and frost bite are two main medical conditions that one can obtain while exposed to these types of conditions. My question to the class and professor is: What can an individual do to protect themselves against LES and the two medical conditions listed above? Both First Aid and supplies used to protect the home.
References:
1.
Gaylord, M.I. (N.D.) Science: Lake Effect Snow. https://www.weather.gov/apx/les
