Background information
Lake Baikal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Eastern Russia. It is the deepest, oldest and largest fresh water lake in the world. The lake is unique in many aspects, including the fact that its waters freeze during winter due to its great depth. This freezing phenomenon occurs because of the large volumes of dense saline brine present in the lake. Moreover, the shallower parts of the lake freeze completely and remain frozen for several months.
What does the science say?
According to experts, the temperature in the lake’s surface falls below freezing point usually from November to April. During these months, cracks in the ice can be observed due to strong winds, as well as temperatures that can reach -36 degrees Celsius.
In fact, Lake Baikal is becoming increasingly vulnerable to climate change. Scientists from the Limnological Institute of the Siberian branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences have estimated that by the end of the 21st century, the lake’s average temperature could increase by 7°C. This could result in an earlier thaw and an extended ice-free period.
Impacts of climate change
It is projected that if climate change continues at its current pace, Lake Baikal’s deep saline-rich water layer could be totally replaced by fresh water within the next 100 years. This could significantly affect the reproduction of an endemic species of freshwater seal and cause the death of some plant species living in the lake’s deeper portions.
Moreover, it is possible that the effects of climate change could cause an increase in the number and size of ice cracks, which could be dangerous for both humans and animals. Not to mention the fact that a warmer period would decrease the amount of oxygen that reaches the interior of the lake, causing further changes in the ecosystem of Lake Baikal.
The changing ice cover
For the past few years, it has become increasingly rare for the lake to freeze entirely, with many shallow parts of the lake failing to freeze in the winter months. This is due to the fact that the winter’s cold winds mix and aerate the surface of the lake, thereby making it harder for the water to freeze.
Additionally, some areas of the shore have become more prone to waves and erosion. This, combined with the increasing water levels, have made the ice not only thinner but also less stable. As a result, navigation through the much thinner winter ice has become a dangerous and unpredictable affair.
The main questions
Looking at the current situation, numerous questions arise. Does Lake Baikal freeze? Is it possible to predict the time when the lake will be covered with ice? Can we use the data collected in order to determine the maximum freeze and minimum thaw dates of the lake?
The importance of data
In order to determine how long and how thick the ice on Lake Baikal can get and how often it makes a complete freeze, data collected by the Baikal-22 expedition in 2019 is needed. According to the results of the expedition, the average freeze point of the lake was –2.98°C, while the earliest freeze was on November 23, 2019.
Data also showed that the deepest freeze of the lake was on February 9, 2020, when the frozen layer was almost six and a half feet thick. Moreover, the latest freeze was observed on April 5th, 2020, when the temperature of the water was -1.6°C.
Potential solutions
In order to counteract the effects of climate change on Lake Baikal, various solutions must be implemented. For example, the amount of water that is poured into the lake must be regulated in order to keep water levels in check. Additionally, snow fences should be put up in order to take advantage of the cooling effects of snow.
Furthermore, research and regulation of the air laws above the lake should be conducted, in order to limit the amount of air pollution which affects the lake’s temperature. Lastly, finances should be allocated to the restoration of the areas with the greatest erosion, in order to prevent further damage to the lake’s environment.
The local perspective
Those living in the area surrounding Lake Baikal have witnessed significant changes in the lake due to its temperature and ice cover over the last few years. Hunting areas have increased due to the retreat of the ice and many of the locals use the lake as a natural refrigerator to preserve food throughout the winter.
At the same time, locals are concerned about the increasing erosion and the decreased thickness of the lake’s ice, which could cause accidents during the winter months. Additionally, some of the local industries, such as fishing and the harvesting of lake vegetation, have suffered due to the ever-changing environment of the lake.
The Local Infrastructure
Despite the local industry’s hardships, the local government has long been supportive of developing the infrastructure around Lake Baikal. Several new roads and bridges have been built in order to facilitate access to the lake and its regions. In addition, a polar station was constructed in 2001 in order to continuously monitor the ice cover of the lake.
Overall, these developments aim to increase the safety of both humans and animals during the winter seasons, while also providing a habitat for some of the unique species that inhabit the area.
Local Events
As a way to celebrate the lake and its unique features, locals and visitors gather around Lake Baikal every year to witness the annual Lake Baikal Ice Marathon. During the event, participants run on the ice, braving temperatures as low as -40°C and strong winds. For more than 20 years, the marathon has served as a testament to the lake’s strength and resilience.
Other events such as the International Ice Sculpture Festival and the local winter festival also take place around the lake in order to celebrate its beauty and provide an opportunity for visitors to experience the lake’s unique winter atmosphere.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lake Baikal does indeed freeze during the winter months, yet that process is greatly affected by climate change and human activities. Despite this, locals and visitors still come together to appreciate the lake’s beauty and celebrate its unique features. Together, we must continue to take action in order to protect the future of Lake Baikal and its unique inhabitants.
