Observed and Predicted Great Lakes Winter Circulations

R. L. Pickett Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory, Ann Arbor MI 48104

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Abstract

Observed mean winter currants in Lakes Ontario and Huron are compared to predictions from a homogeneous, vertically integrated, steady-state model. If specific wind directions are selected to drive this model, the observed and predicted current patterns agree. The specific wind directions were chosen to maximize each lake's wind response. The agreement suggests that there is a mean wind-driven winter circulation in the Great Lakes, and that its pattern depends upon these special wind directions. Based on these factors. winter circulations for Lakes Eire, Huron and Superior are predicted.

Abstract

Observed mean winter currants in Lakes Ontario and Huron are compared to predictions from a homogeneous, vertically integrated, steady-state model. If specific wind directions are selected to drive this model, the observed and predicted current patterns agree. The specific wind directions were chosen to maximize each lake's wind response. The agreement suggests that there is a mean wind-driven winter circulation in the Great Lakes, and that its pattern depends upon these special wind directions. Based on these factors. winter circulations for Lakes Eire, Huron and Superior are predicted.

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