Ice unstable this time of year
In all likelihood, Superiorland is in for a another dose or two of winter weather before spring arrives. That said, the warmer temperatures and clearer skies in recent days probably will bring out the spring fever in some people.
The National Weather Service in Negaunee Township has called for temperatures in the 30s and 40s this week. According to well-established science, temps above 32 degrees mean melting ice. So, common sense suggests people should use caution on Great Lakes and other waterways because of unstable ice.
Although ice might look sturdy, people are at risk of falling through ice in temperatures above freezing. People particularly are cautioned to stay away from cracks, pressure ridges, seams, slushy areas and darker areas of ice since they are potential hazards.
People are asked to remember the acronym ICE, which in this case stands for information, clothing and equipment. People should get the right information about weather, wear the appropriate clothing and bring the right equipment, such as a registered personal locator beacon and a life jacket.
Perhaps better advice would be just to stay away from ice altogether in warmer temperatures. As the saying goes, “No ice is safe ice.”
