CHICAGO (AP) – Government agencies say water levels in Lake Michigan have been replenishing at an unprecedented rate since hitting a record low two years ago.
Experts say Lake Michigan has risen more than 3 feet since January 2013. The Chicago Tribune reports that the resurging waters mean relief for commercial shipping and recreational activities, but they also can contribute to erosion at beaches and shoreline properties.
Some of the Great Lakes, the world’s largest source of freshwater, have experienced below-average levels for years. But much of the Great Lakes Basin recently has been rejuvenated by rain-induced runoff, higher amounts of precipitation, lower temperatures and ice cover from the past two winters.
In addition to Lake Michigan, Lakes Superior and Huron also have seen significant gains.
