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March 1, 2024, is the start of meteorological
 spring in the Northern Hemisphere.

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As we leave winter behind, NOAA satellites have been monitoring

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the extent of ice coverage in the Great Lakes.

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The Great Lakes typically see peak ice 
coverage in late February to early March.

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Ice plays an important role in the ecosystems, economy, and

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coastal resilience of the Great Lakes.

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In  2024, ice coverage reached a historic low.

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The Great Lakes ice coverage was
 measured at 2.7% on February 11, 2024.

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On average, the Great Lakes experience a basin-wide

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maximum in annual ice coverage of about 53%.

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NOAA has observed a decline in ice cover in the Great Lakes Region

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over the past several decades.

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A number of factors have contributed to the historic low this year,

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such as a strong El Niño and

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well above-average temperatures this winter.

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GOES East has observed little ice on the Great Lakes this year.

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During previous years, GOES East watched ice floating on the lakes.

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Radar data from international partner satellites is used in conjunction

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with data and imagery from NOAA satellites to see the extent

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of ice coverage on the lakes.

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VIIRS imagery also helps reveal ice on the lakes by showing

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snow and ice as red, to help differentiate it from cloud cover.

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The satellites have observed little ice this year.

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As spring begins, NOAA and our international partners will

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continue to monitor conditions over the Great Lakes.

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Earth From Orbit: Great Lakes at Historic Low

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NOAA Logo

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NASA Meatball

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