DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Snow is in the forecast, and at least for this evening, we can thank Lake Michigan. Several factors influence lake effect snow, including the temperature difference between the lake and the air above (has to be a minimum of 23 degrees difference), wind direction, and the distance over which the air travels. Cold, dry air passing over warm lakes creates the ideal conditions for snow. When cold air moves over the relatively warmer waters of a lake, moisture and heat are transferred. As this now-moist air reaches areas downwind of the lake, it cools rapidly, causing the moisture to condense and fall as snow.
Given the distance between us and Lake Michigan, only a light dusting in spots is expected early tonight. However, a couple fast-moving compact storms will visit later this weekend and early next week. The bottom line? We may just have to clean the walkway and driveway. Â
Stay tuned, and stay warm. Feelslike temperatures will be below zero to start this weekend. Â
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