Lake Effect Snow Event during GCPEx Field Campaign

Lake effect snow is generated when cold air moves over warm lake waters such that narrow bands of snow clouds develop. The warmer lake waters heat the lower portions of air causing it to become less dense and begin to rise.  As this moisture-laden, warmer air rises it begins to cool leading to condensation and the formation of clouds that can become rather tall enabling the growth of very large snowflakes.  Lake effect snow bands can produce snowfall rates exceeding 5 inches an hour, especially if the wind is directed along the largest width of the lake so that a great deal of moisture is continually supplied to the clouds.