CLEVELAND — While warm weather is certainly welcome following last week's arctic blast, it's causing Lake Erie ice to melt, which increases the chances of lake-effect snow.
According to the latest analysis from NOAA-Great Lakes Coastal Forecasting System, Lake Erie has 85 percent ice coverage, which will only decrease this week as temps remain high.
Over the next few days, rain is expected with temperatures in the 40s and 50s for most areas, according to the Power of 5 weather team.
Those who ice fish or have a shanty on the lake should note a change in ice conditions on Lake Erie and a shift in ice surfaces, which can happen with mild weather and changing wind directions.
Currently, ice thickness in the majority of Lake Erie is between 2-6 inches, according to data on Jan. 29 from the U.S. National Ice Center.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources issued guidelines for when it's safe to ice fish.
As always, it's important to check out current conditions before heading out on the ice. For more information, call 1-800-WILDLIFE or contact your local ODNR office here.
