What is a barometric lake effect?
Quick Answer
A barometric lake effect is the small rise or fall in lake level caused by changes in air pressure. Lower pressure can let the water surface rise slightly, while higher pressure can push it down.
The Full Story
Air pressure exerts force on the surface of lakes, seas, and rivers, so changing weather can make water levels shift a little even when the volume of water stays the same. On large lakes, these pressure changes can be noticeable, especially during storms or low-pressure systems. The effect is small compared with tides or floods, but it is real and measurable. It is one reason lake levels can vary from hour to hour during unsettled weather.
Key Facts
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"Why a lake can rise when the weather changes"
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