For the first time in 30 years, one of the Great Lakes is almost completely frozen over.
Those of us in Michigan have been dealing with subfreezing temperatures for the past several weeks. It’s been cold enough for the ice coverage to increase rapidly on Lake Superior, Lake Huron and Lake Michigan — but Lake Erie, for the first time since 1996, could freeze over completely later this month.
Why Lake Erie Freezes Faster Than Other Great Lakes
With an average depth of just 62 feet, Erie is the shallowest of the Great Lakes. That makes it more susceptible to freezing during prolonged cold spells than the deeper Great Lakes.
READ MORE: Every Great Lake in Michigan Has Completely Frozen Over Except This One
In a typical year, about two-thirds of Lake Erie will become ice-covered by its peak in mid-to-late February. As of the first week of February 2026, the ice coverage on Lake Erie has exceeded 95% according to the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory.
Ice coverage on Lake Erie in 2026 (shown with the black line) is approaching 100% for the first time since 1996. (Photo via Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory)
Ice coverage on Lake Erie in 2026 (shown with the black line) is approaching 100% for the first time since 1996. (Photo via Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory)
While it’s too early to tell exactly how much of Lake Erie will end up frozen before the winter season is over, at least one weather expert is predicting a near-miss in 2026 for those hoping to see the lake completely frozen.
What Weather Experts Are Predicting Next
“We may soon see days with temperatures near or briefly above freezing, which would slow, and eventually halt, additional ice development,” according to a social media post from Erie Weather Now. “Winter isn’t finished yet, but the window for complete ice coverage on Lake Erie is likely closing.”
Comparing Ice Levels Across the Great Lakes
For comparison purposes, as of the first week of February, Lake Superior was at 34% frozen. Lake Michigan was at 33%. Lake Ontario was at 37%. Lake Huron was 77% iced over.
Frozen BMW On Lake Erie Outside Of Buffalo
After a storm brought hurricane-force winds and a lake effect snow storm to Western New York, one unfortunate car was left near the shores of Lake Erie to feel the effects of Mother Nature. The car, with broken windows, is filled with lake water, which has since frozen, leaving the car severely damaged.
Gallery Credit: Ed Nice
Frozen Michigan Waterfalls