View of lake-effect snow shows why Michigan is unlike anywhere in the world [View all]

https://www.mlive.com/weather/2023/11/eye-candy-view-of-lake-effect-snow-shows-why-michigan-is-unlike-anywhere-in-the-world.html

Lake-effect snow has been impacting Michigan for the past few days, and some snow showers are still sticking around in portions of the state. On satellite, the snow has a signature look, though different conditions can cause lake-effect snow showers and clouds to form differently.

In the current satellite loop, the lake-effect snow showers impacting the southwestern and northern portions of Lower Michigan can easily be seen. Bands of snow showers moving to the southeast are currently ongoing and will lead to further accumulations in parts of the state. There’s more to the image than being able to pick out snow showers, as well as some lake-effect clouds that aren’t producing any precipitation.

The movement of the lake-effect bands depends on the wind direction at different levels in the atmosphere. As of right now, winds are coming from the west-northwest just above the surface, driving the lake-effect towards the southeast. If the winds shift, so will the lake-effect.

Satellite imagery at link.