Overview
Lake Huron is the second-largest of the Great Lakes and is located in both Canada and the United States. Every winter, the lake freezes over completely, and during the summer, the ice thaws and melts. But this year the lake is close to being completely frozen due to the unusually cold temperatures and strong winds. Although Lake Huron is normally relatively warm, it has experienced a rapid plunge in temperatures this winter due to climate change.
Climate Change Impact
Climate change is affecting Lake Huron and the entire Great Lakes region. Global temperatures have increased, causing the water temperatures to become warmer than usual. With warmer water, the ice thaws earlier than usual and takes longer to get back to freezing temperatures. The colder air temperatures combined with the strong winds have caused the already warm water to become even warmer, and Lake Huron is now close to becoming completely frozen.
Effects of Frozen Lake Huron
The frozen lake has caused a disruption to many industries dependent on the lake’s waters. Shipping and fishing, two industries that rely heavily on Lake Huron’s waters, have been severely affected as vessels are unable to navigate through the thick ice. Additionally, the longer ice season has caused an increase in the number of oil spills that have occurred due to the freezing temperatures and strong winds.
Threats to Wildlife
The extended frozen season has further contributed to the threats against the wildlife living in Lake Huron. The warmer water temperatures have caused a decrease in oxygen levels, which affects both the fish and the aquatic plants living in the lake. Additionally, with the strong winds caused by the freezing temperatures, many of the animals living in the lake have had to migrate to warmer waters.
How Residents Can Help
Residents of the Great Lakes region can help to reduce the effects of climate change on the lake by making small changes to their daily lives. Limiting water use and reducing the number of trips taken in cars helps to reduce carbon emissions and, in turn, helps to keep the lake’s waters cool so that it has a chance to freeze over and thaw at its own natural rhythm.
Environmental Organizations
There are many environmental organizations that are working to reduce the effects of climate change on Lake Huron and the entire Great Lakes region. One organization that is making a difference is the Great Lakes Environmental Project (GLEP). GLEP is working to reduce the amount of pollutants that end up in the lake’s waters and to restore the habitats of the native wildlife living in the lake.
Environmental Preservation
Organizations such as GLEP are committed to preserving the natural environment of the Great Lakes region and are making great strides in the fight against climate change. While these efforts aren’t enough to completely reverse the effects of global warming on Lake Huron, they are helping to reduce the risk of the lake completely freezing over and helping to ensure that it has a chance to thaw at a natural rate.
Continuing Damage
As climate change continues to take its toll on Lake Huron and the entire Great Lakes region, it is important to understand the impact of high temperatures and the potential for the lake to become completely frozen. As temperatures continue to rise, the lake is at risk of experiencing a longer and thicker ice season, which can have devastating effects on both the lake’s human inhabitants and wildlife.
Preventive Measures
There are many preventive measures one can take to help protect Lake Huron from the effects of climate change. Reducing water consumption, making sure to properly dispose of pollutants, and limiting the use of cars can help reduce the amount of carbon emissions and ensure that the lake has a chance to freeze and thaw naturally. Additionally, organizations such as GLEP are making great strides in promoting environmental preservation and reducing the impact of pollutants on the lake’s waters.
Local Guidance
Local governments and organizations are also working to help Lake Huron return to its natural state by providing guidance on how to reduce the effects of climate change and how to prevent the lake from freezing over completely. Organizations are encouraging people to use alternative energy sources and to participate in programs aimed at restoring habitats and preserving the lake’s native wildlife.
Public Education
Organizations such as GLEP are also engaging in public education efforts to spread awareness about the effects of climate change on Lake Huron and its surrounding area. These efforts are helping to inform people about the potential threats posed by climate change and what steps can be taken to protect the lake and its inhabitants.
Global Efforts
The fight against climate change is a global effort, and Lake Huron is not immune to the effects of global warming. It is important to recognize that even small steps towards reducing carbon emissions can have a positive impact on the lake’s health, and by taking advantage of increased public awareness, organizations can continue to make strides in reducing the risk of the lake freezing over completely.
