Characteristics of true lake breezes along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan

Abstract

Measurements of temperature, humidity and wind velocity made from 1973 to 1978 at several special stations near Lake Michigan are analyzed to determine true lake breeze occurrences, movement inland and effects of cloudiness and wind speed on lake breeze behavior. A total of 187 true lake breezes occurred in the 6 year period, with July and August having the most frequent occurrences. Nearly half of these moved inland as far as 19 km. Fifty retreated lakeward after having moved inland. The formation and behavior of true lake breezes are discussed in relation to the strength of the offshore wind and cloudiness. Vertical temperature differences associated with the passage, duration and retreat of true lake breezes are presented and discussed.