Climate Change and the Great Lakes

Climate change is a global issue, but effects can be seen at the local level.

In the Great Lakes, observations have indicated:

• Winters are getting shorter.
• The Great Lakes are covered by less ice and for shorter periods of time.
• Plant growing zones are shifting.
• Nighttime temperatures are warming more than daytime temperatures.
• Extreme heat days are more common.
• Seasonal distribution of precipitation has been changing – increasing in winter and decreasing in summer – though annual average precipitation levels are unlikely to change.

Predicted outcomes as a result of warmer temperatures:

• There could be a large decrease in cold-water fish like trout while invasive species will thrive.
• Dead zones and fish kills would become more frequent and extreme.
• More storm and flood damages are to be expected.
• Shortages of water in other areas will make the Great Lakes a target for export.
• Boreal forests like those covering the Michigan region may grow a little easier and faster at first, but eventually could disappear.
• Drying will affect surface and groundwater levels. Soil moisture is projected to decrease by 30 percent in summer.
• Overall, the region may grow drier because any increases in rain or snow are unlikely to compensate for the drying effects of increased evaporation and transpiration in a warmer climate.
  

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