The current surface temperature in the western part of Lake Erie is 26 degrees Celsius, with some areas exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, as per data from the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA). On July 31, the average lake temperature typically hovers around 24 degrees Celsius, based on information available on NOAA’s website. Mike McKay, the head of the Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research at the University of Windsor, remarked that while not breaking records, the temperature rise is noteworthy, particularly after a cool spring. Just three weeks ago in mid-June, lake temperatures were 2 degrees Celsius below the 30-year average, making the rapid increase quite remarkable, considering the energy required to warm water. McKay attributed the warming trend to prolonged hot weather in the area. Monitoring Lake Erie’s temperature is crucial, McKay emphasized, as water temperature plays a role in blue-green algae formation, which can generate toxins leading to eye and skin irritation, along with flu-like symptoms. McKay referenced a colleague’s publication in ‘Science’ titled ‘Blooms Like it Hot,’ highlighting the preference of cyanobacteria and blue-green algae for temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius. However, McKay noted that temperature isn’t the sole factor contributing to these blooms, pointing out that nutrient levels in the water are also significant. A forecast from the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science of NOAA released in May predicted mild to moderate blue-green algae blooms for 2025. McKay mentioned that temperatures vary widely across Lake Erie, with the western basin typically warmer, the central region cooler, and the eastern basin notably cooler. Even within these zones, temperatures can fluctuate, with recent readings showing 25 degrees Celsius at Sturgeon Creek and 24.4 degrees Celsius at Hillman Marsh.
