Lake Outflow

12-18-2017 10-29-54 AM

 

While out walking ‘ON’ the lake today I came across its Outflow for the first time.

Although completely covered with 6 inches of ice at the moment. At this spot on the lake you can see ripples where the slow, but moving water surface (current) is leaving the lake and heading for the Mighty Mississippi River.

With the many subzero nights here just of late I was very surprised to actually see ‘Open Water’ at all.

But did remember not to go any nearer, as the ice was obviously thinner nearer the flowing water, even if it was running very slow.

Unlike 3 other inhabitants of Minnesota this weekend, who fell through the ice they were on. 2 of which drowned.

 

REMEMBER THIS AS A SAFETY GUIDELINE

For new, clear ice only

Under 4" - STAY OFF

4" - Ice fishing or other activities on foot

5" - 7" - Snowmobile or ATV

8" - 12" - Car or small pickup

12" - 15" - Medium truck

Many factors other than thickness can cause ice to be unsafe.

White ice or "snow ice" is only about half as strong as new clear ice. Double the above thickness guidelines when traveling on white ice.

 

Done