Lake Superior is often considered an inland sea due to its immense size and characteristics.
While technically a lake, Lake Superior shares several attributes with seas, leading to the occasional description. According to a statement from 2015, Lake Superior is truly an inland sea. Weather, navigation, and buoyage are taken seriously and monitored by federal maritime agencies, further emphasizing its sea-like nature.
Characteristics Making Lake Superior Seem Like a Sea
- Vast Size: Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes and one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world by surface area. Its sheer size creates conditions similar to those found in smaller seas.
- Wave Action: The lake can generate substantial waves, especially during storms, mimicking ocean wave behavior.
- Shipping Traffic: Lake Superior supports significant shipping traffic, just like many seas. These vessels need maritime agencies.
- Weather Patterns: The lake affects local weather patterns and even creates its own microclimates, influencing the surrounding region in ways similar to the sea.
- Navigation and Buoyage: Federal maritime agencies monitor weather, navigation and buoyage.
Table Summarizing Lake Superior's Sea-like Qualities
| Feature | Lake Superior | Seas |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Extremely Large | Varies, but generally large |
| Wave Action | Significant, especially during storms | Significant, influenced by weather patterns |
| Shipping Traffic | High volume | Often high volume |
| Weather Impact | Influences local weather patterns and microclimates | Influences regional and global weather patterns |
| Monitoring | Monitored by maritime agencies | Monitored by maritime agencies |
