Are there strong currents in lakes?

Rip currents are strong currents that can pull you offshore into deeper water. Rip currents account for nearly half of current-related incidents on the Great Lakes. Outlet currents form near water outlets like river mouths. Never swim near water outlets, as the current can take you offshore into deeper water.



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Currents develop in lakes from winds across the surface and from temperature patterns and bathymetry along with the Coriolis “force”. The current strengths and directions vary every minute, but in general they display a counterclockwise pattern.

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In the Great Lakes, swimmers are most likely to encounter one of five common currents: rip, outlet (river channel), longshore, channel, and structural.

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Underwater currents can form in lakes, rivers and oceans, and there are many reasons why they happen.

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Key Characteristics of Lakes and Ponds - In lakes, ponds, and inland wetlands, the water is standing, not flowing. Though currents can be swift as waters enter and leave ponds and lakes, in general, ponds and lakes move slowly because they have been blocked (by beaver dams, humans, natural rock cavities, etc.)

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Waves on lakes are mostly the result of wind and are called “wind-driven” or “surface” waves. Sure, we suppose a random earthquake could trigger a whitecap or a lake could be big enough for the moon's gravity to pull a little water back and forth but, almost always, the waves you see on lakes are being created by wind.

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Know before you go Before you head out, check online to find out if the swim area is currently monitored, is under advisory, or has been closed for health or safety reasons. This is especially important after a heavy rain.

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Pollutants from residential, agricultural, and industrial areas reduce water quality. Land development decreases the amount of wildlife habitat. Fish populations have been declining in recent years as a result of these threats and increased fishing pressure.

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An undertow is a steady, offshore-directed compensation flow, which occurs below waves near the shore. Physically, nearshore, the wave-induced mass flux between wave crest and trough is onshore directed. This mass transport is localized in the upper part of the water column, i.e. above the wave troughs.

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Undertow is a phenomenon that occurs in bodies of water, including rivers, when waves push water up onto the shore and then that water flows back out to sea, creating a strong current beneath the surface of the water.

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