The Great Lakes will face severe storm conditions in late December 2025. Gale force winds are expected to generate unusually high waves, possibly exceeding 30 feet in Lake Superior. These conditions echo the dangerous weather leading to the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald in 1975.
Understanding the Dangers of High, Choppy Waves on the Great Lakes
The Great Lakes can prove to be more treacherous than the ocean for several reasons. Storm systems over the lakes can escalate quickly. Winds from different directions create unpredictable and rapidly developing waves.
Wave Characteristics on the Great Lakes
- Waves build up much faster than on oceans.
- Choppy conditions arise due to locally generated seas from nearby storms, leading to erratic and rough waters.
- Compared to smoothed ocean swells, Great Lakes waves are steeper and packed closely together.
Paul Christensen from Interlake Maritime Services notes that navigating these waters can be likened to the difference between a swimming pool and a bathtub. The smaller area means less energy is needed to create movement in the water.
Impact of Wave Frequency and Size
On the Great Lakes, wave periods can range from two to five seconds, causing larger vessels to sit on multiple waves simultaneously. This can lead to dangerous hull stress situations. The ship may experience “hogging” if the wave crest is midship, bending the hull and causing metal fatigue.
Freezing Conditions
Freezing temperatures present additional hazards during violent weather. Freshwater freezes more quickly than salt water. This means that ice can accumulate rapidly on vessels, substantially increasing their weight and making navigation even more difficult.
In summary, while both oceans and the Great Lakes can produce hazardous conditions, the unique characteristics of the Great Lakes often lead to higher risk during storm events. Understanding these dangers is crucial for anyone navigating these formidable waters.
