What is a common weather condition that can affect navigation on Lake Ontario?

High winds are a significant weather condition that can greatly affect navigation on Lake Ontario. These winds can create large waves and choppy water conditions, making boating and sailing hazardous. The strength and direction of the winds can lead to unpredictable changes in water levels and current patterns, which can pose challenges for vessels, particularly small boats. Navigators must be aware of wind conditions to ensure safety and to plan their routes effectively.

While heavy rainfall can also affect visibility and water levels, it typically does not have the immediate and severe impact on navigational safety that high winds do. Snowstorms, while potentially hazardous, are less of a concern for navigation during the warmer months when boating is most prevalent. Heat waves, although they can have implications for comfort and temperature management on vessels, do not significantly hinder navigation like high winds do. Therefore, understanding wind patterns and their effects is essential for safe navigation on Lake Ontario.