Ice cover on the Great Lakes has often been thought to cap evaporation that can influence water levels and regional weather. But a new study finds ice doesn’t play as big a role in blocking evaporation as once thought — which could prove vital for predicting future climate conditions and lake levels.

A major winter storm brought a foot or more of snow and snarled travel during the post-Thanksgiving weekend, after the system trekked through the Corn Belt, Upper Midwest, Great Lakes and Midwest — crippling major interstates and leading to cascading airport delays. And it’s not over yet, as another hefty snowstorm looms for parts of the Northeast.

Experts say the Great Lakes can be more dangerous than the open ocean due to their volatile nature. Waves on the Great Lakes are steeper and closer together, causing choppy conditions and a rougher ride for ships. Seasonal temperature differences between the air and water make Great Lakes waves more unpredictable, especially in the fall.

Cold air is sweeping across the Great Lakes region, bringing lake-effect snow from Michigan's Upper Peninsula to Western New York

Forecasters warn motorists that snow will pile up this week around the Great Lakes, with effects ranging from snow-clogged roads to downed trees and power outages.

Sunday Snowstorm Update: Radar, Temp Map show your safest drive-time and routes Here’s a look at when the snowstorm will wind down across Michigan and the Great Lakes region. The snow will end from southwest to northeast across Lower Michigan Sunday.

Former pandemic boomtowns, on the other hand, are among the markets most likely to cool down next year, Redfin warned.

While it connects to the St. Lawrence Seaway, it's not officially part of the Great Lakes, but it was briefly.

Great Lakes Aquarium announced the death of longtime resident Bogey the bald eagle, who was 26-years-old. After a period of declining health, the decision was made to humanely euthanize Bogey. X-rays taken in June revealed Bogey had significant arthritis,