El Ni?o in Michigan is Here!

Michigan is currently experiencing a warmer then usually winter season thanks to El Niño. Earlier in the year, meteorologists predicted the Michigan had a 40% chance of being warmer from December 2015 through February 2016. This means the winter of 2015 and 2016 will be warmer with less snowfall. While this is will cause an immediate impact on winter dependent businesses including ski resorts, snow mobile dealers and the like, how could it affect the 2016 boating season?

Less snow means less time will be spent on Michigan ski slopes, snowmobile trails, ice fishing and enjoying winter related festivals. The Michigan business community, especially those dependent on winter revenue will start to feel the monetary impact almost immediately. How will a strong El Niño affect Michigan business in 2016?

The Great Lake Ice Coverage

The first concern for a strong El Niño is the Great Lakes ice coverage. According to Mlive.com, a strong El Niño will have a dramatic impact on the Great Lakes. Simply put, the Great Lakes will experience lower ice coverage. In the short-term, this will affect ice fishing, resort communities and other winter-related events include Tip up Town.

However, it may also have a negative impact on the summer season, too. The lower the ice coverage means an increased chance of evaporation from the lakes. While this is not a significant portion of water loss of great lakes, it may lower water levels by a few inches. Fortunately, the water levels of the Great Lakes have been on the rise in recent years.

However, lower water levels affect dredging requirements for marinas and increase the chances of recreational boats hitting submerged stationary objects, since they are closer to the surface of the water with lower water levels. This winter will be an interesting if we have a strong El Niño and the question is how will it affect the 2016 summer recreational season.