Take a look at the data

4wan weather – Last year, we experienced the lowest ice levels on record across the Great Lakes since record-keeping began. And so far this winter, the lake is once again unusually ice-free.

This scenario is likely to occur more frequently, given that the upper Midwest has experienced the nation’s strongest winter warming trend since 1970.

New data from Climate Central shows that long-term records show ice area has decreased by 25% over the past 50 years, despite year-to-year fluctuations. Lake ice loss can impact lake levels and lake-impact snow. Not to mention the cascading effects on ecosystems and recreational activities like ice fishing.

The same trend of fewer freezing days is being seen across the Great Lakes.

The Great Lakes now have an average of 27 fewer days of ice than they did in 1973. Closer to home, Lake Erie saw a 35-day drop, but the most surprising drop was in Lake Ontario, which saw a 46-day drop.

Warmer winters increase the chance of ice-free lakes. Winter is the warmest season across southeastern Michigan.

—> Here’s Michigan’s weather forecast for the next 8-14 days

See the breakdown here

Here’s a breakdown of the data from Ashley Barathy and an excerpt from her conversation with Al Roker on the “Today Show.”