DO THE GREAT LAKES DIMINISH RAINFALL IN THE CROP-CROWING SEASON?

Abstract

SYNOPSIS During the severe drought in the early summer months of 1921, at Ludington Mich., showers frequently seemed to avoid the shore of Lake Michigan. This led the writer to investigate the question whether or not the Lake actually causes a diminution in the normal amounts. The records show an area of maximum fall in the interior of extreme southern Michigan, in May, June, and July. In August and September the area is absent. Less rainfall occurs along the eastern than the western shore of Lake Michigan, and there is a maximum area in the interior of Wisconsin. Apparently the Lakes do cause some diminution. The probable of cause is the Lake breezes during the middle of the day and the afternoon, strongest in May, June, and July, which promote circulation and have a lateral movement that prevents the ascending currents needed for local thunderstorms. In general, however, the monthly amounts are sufficient for agricultural interests.