Climate Change in the Great Lakes Region

Climate change is a global issue, but has been affects different areas in different ways.

Q: What is Climate Change? A: A change in climate attributed to human activity that alters the global atmosphere over an extended period of time.

The climate of the Great Lakes region will grow warmer and probably drier over the next 100 years. Data indicates the daily high temperatures in the region could increase 5 to 11 degrees Fahrenheit, with winter temperatures increasing more than summer temperatures.

In the Great Lakes, observations have indicated:

• Winters are getting shorter.
• The Great Lakes are covered by less ice and for shorter periods of time.
• Plant growing zones are shifting.
• Nighttime temperatures are warming more than daytime temperatures.
• Extreme heat days are more common.
• Seasonal distribution of precipitation has been changing – increasing in winter and decreasing in summer – though annual average precipitation levels are unlikely to change.

Predicted outcomes as a result of warmer temperatures:

• There could be a large decrease in cold-water fish like trout while invasive species will thrive.
• Dead zones and fish kills would become more frequent and extreme.
• More storm and flood damages are to be expected.
• Shortages of water in other areas will make the Great Lakes a target for export.
• Boreal forests like those covering the Michigan region may grow a little easier and faster at first, but eventually could disappear.
• Drying will affect surface and groundwater levels. Soil moisture is projected to decrease by 30 percent in summer.
• Overall, the region may grow drier because any increases in rain or snow are unlikely to compensate for the drying effects of increased evaporation and transpiration in a warmer climate.

Q: How can we fix it? A: According to a report by Michigan Sea Grant, “Preparing for Climate Change in the Great Lakes Region Report” there are three main areas to tackle: Reduce heat-trapping emissions in Michigan Minimize human pressures on the environment Be ready and plan for the impacts of climate change

The good news is that although some warming is inevitable—as past gas emissions will continue to have a warming effect for decades—the most extreme outcomes for Michigan can be avoided if responsible measures are taken on small and large scales.

Sea Grant Resources:
Climate Change and Sea Grant Activities
Sea Grant’s suggested Climate Resources

Other (Offsite) resources:
Union of Concerned Scientists, Climate Change in Michigan

Sources: The Union of Concerned Scientists, Michigan Sea Grant reports and research, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Adminsitration and the International Climate Change Partnership.

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