SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- If you have noticed the lack of sunshine lately, it’s not your imagination. Winters in the Midwest are typically gray and gloomy. Meteorologists call this abundant cloud cover “perma-cloud.”
The main culprit that keeps those stubborn clouds around is snow cover. Perma-cloud occurs when snow begins to melt and evaporates. Since the air near the surface is cooler than the air aloft, it gets trapped and condenses into clouds. The clouds are low and shallow and typically hover a few thousand feet above the surface. At night when temperatures cool further, dense fog develops.
For clouds to clear, it typically takes strong high pressure or a strong cold front to move the clouds out.
Another factor, unique to Michiana, also contributes to cloudy days—Lake Michigan. Winds blow over the relatively warm, moist lake surface, causing evaporation. The rising air condenses into narrow bands or “streets” of clouds, eventually dumping snow over land. As long as the lake is unfrozen, the chance for abundant cloud cover and snow remains.
Good news--as winter continues, and temperatures get colder, the lake will eventually freeze over. This will ultimately turn off the lake effect snow machine and lessen cloud cover.
In the meantime, take care of yourself as Michiana continues to experience limited sunshine.
To keep Seasonal Depressive Disorder at bay, you can put these strategies into practice:
- Exercise regularly
- Spend time outdoors
- Get as much natural light as you can
- Take Vitamin D supplements