Great Lakes Ice Coverage Remains Low Across Michigan, Ohio, and New York as Winter Begins, NOAA Data Shows

WALDRON, Ark. — Ice coverage across the Great Lakes remains limited as winter officially gets underway, with new data showing that overall ice cover stands at just 5% as of December 20, 2025. While some localized freezing has begun, especially on Lake Erie, most of the region is still far behind what many residents expect this time of year.

According to the latest ice analysis, conditions vary significantly from lake to lake, reflecting recent temperature patterns and the lack of prolonged Arctic cold across the Midwest and Great Lakes region.

Great Lakes Ice Cover Breakdown by Lake

The most recent measurements show the following ice coverage levels:

• Lake Superior: 2% ice cover (below the long-term average of 4%)
• Lake Michigan: 3% ice cover (slightly below the average of 4%)
• Lake Huron: 8% ice cover (above the historical average of 7%)
• Lake Erie: 15% ice cover (well above the average of 5%)
• Lake Ontario: 2% ice cover (matching its long-term average)

Together, these figures place the combined Great Lakes ice coverage at 5%, which is right on par with the historical average for this date — but still visually sparse across most shorelines.

“Ice is present, but it’s far from widespread,” the data indicates, especially across the deeper and warmer lakes such as Michigan and Ontario.

Lake Erie Freezes Faster Than the Rest

Among all five lakes, Lake Erie continues to stand out. Its relatively shallow depth allows it to cool and freeze more rapidly than the others, leading to ice coverage nearly three times higher than the long-term average.

This early ice formation can have implications for local weather, including enhanced lake-effect snow potential when cold air moves in later this winter.

“Lake Erie is once again leading the way into winter,” forecasters note, “while the deeper lakes lag behind.”

Why Ice Levels Are Still Limited

Meteorologists point to milder-than-normal temperatures and frequent storm systems as key reasons why ice growth has been slow across much of the Great Lakes basin. Wind, wave action, and fluctuating temperatures prevent ice from stabilizing, particularly on larger lakes like Superior and Michigan.

Without sustained subfreezing conditions, ice coverage tends to remain patchy and confined to bays, harbors, and nearshore areas.

What This Means Going Forward

While ice coverage is currently modest, conditions can change quickly if colder air settles into the region after the holidays. Historically, January and February bring the most rapid ice expansion, especially during prolonged cold snaps.

For now, officials say there is no cause for concern, but they continue to monitor trends closely as winter progresses.

“This is still early in the season,” analysts emphasize. “The Great Lakes can gain ice rapidly once the pattern turns colder.”

Looking Ahead

Residents across Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York should expect continued updates as winter evolves. Ice conditions affect everything from shipping and fishing to lake-effect snow forecasts, making ongoing monitoring critical.

WaldronNews.com will continue tracking Great Lakes ice coverage and winter weather trends throughout the season.