The Great Lakes are covered in ice; how can this effect weather in Michiana?

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- All five of the Great Lakes have more ice coverage than typical; including Lake Erie, which may completely freeze over in the coming days.

Recent observations from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) show that Lake Erie is nearly covered in thick ice.

With 96% of its surface covered in ice and snow, it is clear that we are experiencing a much colder winter than previous years.

With more ice coverage now compared to recent years, it is a good indicator -though, not guaranteed- that Michiana is likely to see less lake effect snow.