Put-in-Bay weather is changeable, to say the least. Hereabouts, as elsewhere in the United States, one often hears the refrain, “Just wait ten minutes . . .” However, the dynamic forces which affect Lake Erie are known for creating incredible natural drama. Sunrises, sunsets yes, but also water spouts, gigantic ocean-like swells, flooding, low-water advisories, rip currents and near hurricane force winds. TV newscasters and National Weather Service broadcasts typically highlight the fundamental data. However, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) presents detailed reports which clarify the complexity of our environmental experience.
Sunday, 15 November 2020, is one particular day of interest in this context. NOAA puts it this way: “On Sunday, November 15th, a very potent upper level trough and strong 160 knot jet streak resulted in a deepening surface low down to 980 mb moving northeast across the Great Lakes region. The wind field ahead of this trough was particularly intense with upwards of 120 knots at 500mb and 70 knots at 850mb.” Standard surface pressure is 1013.2 millibars or 29.92 inches on the barometer. Divide the pressure value by 33.864 to get inches mercury.
For detailed analysis, including charts and photographs, visit https://www.weather.gov/cle/event_HighWind_Severe_20201115