This summer, NOAA researchers are studying an unusual feature of Lake Huron: giant sinkholes.
Scientists already estimate how much water comes into and out of the Great Lakes by measuring precipitation, runoff, evaporation and other processes; these “deposits” and “withdrawals” all play into NOAA’s forecasts of Great Lakes water levels.
Determining the amount of water supplied specifically by sinkholes, however, requires more research.
Despite some being more than 300 feet across and up to 60 feet deep, sinkholes aren’t likely contributors of large volumes of water, but just knowing the amount could help scientists get a more accurate reading on water levels across the Great Lakes.
Continue reading at NOAA.
Image via NOAA.