Winter on the Waters

Photo by Cindi Cote

As winter deepens across the Northeast, the lakes that define our region’s landscape are transitioning from open water to frozen surfaces. Ice on lakes brings opportunities—from skating and ice fishing to simply enjoying winter’s beauty—along with serious safety considerations. This year’s early cold snaps have accelerated ice formation, prompting local observers and outdoor enthusiasts to pay careful attention to conditions.

Opechee Lake Ice-In: December 6, 2025

This season, Lake Opechee has reached a key winter milestone earlier than in many recent years. Local lake monitors officially declared ice-in on Lake Opechee on December 6, 2025. Although the ice-in designation is an important seasonal indicator, it does not guarantee uniform thickness or safety for walking, skating, ice fishing, or motorized activity. Early-season ice can vary significantly across the lake, especially near inlets, outlets, and shallow coves.

While each lake in the region freezes at its own pace, Opechee’s early December ice-in aligns with the colder-than-average temperatures experienced during late November and early December. Continued monitoring will determine when the lake reaches conditions suitable for safe recreation.

Understanding Ice Conditions

Even when a lake appears frozen, the properties of that ice can differ widely across a single waterbody. Factors like water depth, wind, inflows and outflows, underwater springs, and snow cover all influence ice formation and strength. Clear, solid ice forms fastest and is generally stronger than opaque or white “snow ice,” which can be as much as half as strong.

Ice Safety: Critical Guidelines Before You Go Out

No ice is completely and universally safe. Conditions can change day-to-day—or even hour-to-hour—so it is imperative that anyone venturing onto frozen water understand best practices and exercise caution. Below are evidence-based safety guidelines:

• Ice Thickness Benchmarks (for new, clear ice):

• Under 4 inches: unsafe for foot travel

• 4–6 inches: suitable for walking or ice fishing

• 5–7 inches: suitable for snowmobiles or ATVs

• Larger vehicles require significantly more thickness, and public agencies generally discourage driving on ice altogether.

Key Safety Practices:

1. Test frequently: Use an ice chisel, auger, or drill to check thickness at regular intervals as you move away from shore.

2. Avoid areas with moving water: Ice around inlets, outlets, and springs tends to be thinner and less reliable.

3. Beware snow cover: Snow acts as an insulating layer that slows freezing and can conceal weak spots.

4. Use the buddy system: Never go alone; tell someone on shore where you are going and when you plan to return.

5. Carry safety gear: Rope, ice picks, flotation devices, and a charged cell phone can make a life-saving difference.

6. Watch the weather: Rapid temperature swings around freezing can weaken ice and create hazardous conditions.

If you or someone else breaks through the ice, stay calm and act deliberately: turn back toward where you came from (as that ice supported you before), kick to gain leverage, use ice picks if available, and roll away from the hole to distribute your weight as you retreat.

Sunapee NH

Final Thought: Respect Winter’s Power

Ice on the lake evokes cherished winter traditions, but it also demands respect and preparation. Conditions vary across every waterbody and are influenced by weather, topography, and lake dynamics. By staying informed about ice-in developments, following best practices for safety, and preparing for changing conditions, you can enjoy winter responsibly and return home safely.