Temperatures early Sunday morning plunged to -16°C along Toronto’s shoreline, marking the coldest reading since February 2023.
This bitter start set the stage for a rare weather phenomenon: steam devils. Rising from Lake Ontario’s surface, these delicate vortices of water vapour created a stunning spectacle against the backdrop of lake-effect clouds and a golden sunrise.
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It’s not only beautiful but also a lesson in atmospheric science.
For this atmospheric magic trick to occur, an extreme temperature gradient is key. Atmospheric soundings from the morning revealed a massive temperature difference: Arctic air of -16°C passed across the +4°C degree water temperatures. This 20°C temperature difference triggered rapid evaporation, saturating the air directly above the lake.
Light wins are essential at the surface, as too much wind would scatter the delicate steam devils. Moreover, stronger winds aloft can blow the vortices into their mesmerizing shape as seen by local photographers.
Zooming out, satellite imagery captured Lake Ontario in all its glory. As the cold air surged southward, it picked up moisture from the lake; the air eventually saturated, leading to lake-effect clouds bubbling up, as noted in the backdrop of the photos.
Lake Ontario acts as a heat reservoir in the winter, and can greatly influence the local weather patterns.
Although you have to often get up early in the morning to experience steam devils, it’s an unforgettable experience. The clash of winter’s chill and Lake Ontario’s lingering warmth serves as a reminder to marvel at Canada’s dynamic winter weather.
