During which time of year does Lake Ontario reach its lowest levels?

Lake Ontario typically reaches its lowest levels during the winter months. This phenomenon occurs primarily due to the combination of decreased precipitation and increased evaporation rates during the colder months. As temperatures drop, the inflow from tributaries and rainfall generally declines, leading to lower water levels. Additionally, the winter season often brings ice cover to the lake, further inhibiting evaporation but not sufficiently compensating for the reduced inflow.

In contrast, spring and early summer generally see rising water levels as melting snow and increased rainfall contribute to higher inflow. Summer months often maintain stable levels due to balanced evaporation and precipitation, while fall can experience varying water levels as conditions shift, but they do not typically reach the lows experienced in winter. Understanding the seasonal dynamics of Lake Ontario's water levels is crucial for navigation, ecology, and water management.