Weeks of deep cold helped ice form on lakes and ponds across the Rochester region, but with warmer temperatures and rain expected this week — the ice is increasingly unstable, officials warn. Even when ice appears solid, a rapid warmup into the 40s or 50s can weaken it quickly.
So anyone heading out on the ice should take steps to be safe. Those temperature fluctuations can make a difference, as slushy ice is only half as strong as clear ice and ice that thaws and refreezes can be weak or spongy. Ice covered by snow can be thinner or weaker due to the insulating effects.
Clear ice with a bluish tint typically indicates that it is strong. At least 4 inches of clear ice is necessary to support an average person’s weight, according to the New York State Department of Health Security and Emergency Services.
- Ice fishing and other activities on foot can be undertaken when there are 4 inches of ice.
- At least 5 inches of ice can support snowmobile or ATV, but 8 inches to a foot of ice is necessary for car or small pickup truck.
- A larger pickup truck requires even more ice, about 12 to 15 inches.
All those ice thickness measurements are for new, clear ice on non-running waters, according to the state Department of Environmental Conservation. Remember ice tends to be thicker on the outside edges of a lake or pond, then thinner toward the middle…