Whitening Event on Cayuga Lake, July 9, 2026 MODIS Terra 🗺️
About Whitening Event on Cayuga Lake, July 9, 2026 MODIS Terra ....
A "whitening" or "whiting" event on Cayuga Lake is a natural phenomenon where the water's surface turns a milky turquoise or white. It is caused by the sudden, massive open-water precipitation of microscopic calcium carbonate (calcite) crystals.These events typically occur during the warm summer months (usually July or August) when surface water temperatures rise and intense algal photosynthesis pushes the water's pH up. The crystals scatter sunlight, dramatically changing the water's appearance and briefly lowering water clarity.
Helpful Hint: While I suggest you look on blog for a downloadable PDF Map, you should be able to print or save this map by clicking the print button on the map above.
Data Sources
Road Trip to Coal Country by Nate Matthews - You can download the KMZ File used in creation of this map.
Aqua Satellite - Imagetry from Aqua Satellite. NASA EOSDIS GIBS. NASA GIBBS Layer: MODIS_Aqua_CorrectedReflectance_TrueColor
3DEP Elevation Hillshade. LIDAR and legacy USGS DRG Topo Derived hillshades used as a background. DEM - WMS Service: https://elevation.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/services/3DEPElevation/ImageServer/WMSServer, Layer: 3DEPElevation:Hillshade Gray
Full List of WMS and ArcMap Services - CSV Spreadsheet with all web map services currently used on the blog.
More about Cayuga Lake...
Cayuga Lake, nestled in upstate New York, is the longest of the Finger Lakes, boasting a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. With its sparkling waters surrounded by lush vineyards, it's a haven for both outdoor enthusiasts and wine enthusiasts. The lake offers a playground for boating, fishing, and water sports, while its shores are adorned with charming towns and historic sites. Cayuga Lake is renowned for its rich Native American history and vibrant local communities. Visitors can explore wineries along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, indulge in farm-to-table cuisine, and admire the breathtaking landscapes that shift with the seasons. This gem captures the essence of both relaxation and exploration, making it a captivating destination for all who seek the tranquility of the water and the allure of the region's offerings.
