Lake Erie's declining water level posed problems for boaters last summer, and the downward trend may continue. Above-normal rainfall in March and April could lessen the predicted decline, but the lower lake level trend will likely continue. Moderate snowfall that has accumulated in the upper Great Lakes basin normally would help raise Lake Erie's level, but much of the meltwater will be retained by Lakes Superior, Michigan and Huron due to their current low levels. And Lake Michigan currently is at its lowest level since 1965. Dr. Quinn also said that besides receiving below normal winter precipitation in the upper Great Lakes, the region's ice coverage was also below normal.
Open water allows continuous evaporation of lake water, even during winter months.
Several years of persistent drought conditions have lowered Lake Erie's water level more than four feet since its record high level in 1986. Also remain aware while boating on days with strong westerly and southwesterly winds, which can temporarily lower the lake level further, making shallow harbors difficult to re-enter. Snyder said that although Lake Erie's February water level is nearly the same as last winter, the lake is expected to rise less than normal during the spring months.