The streak of 17 days of measurable snow ended this morning in exchange for bitter cold temperatures (-12.1 at 7:00 this morning). Speaking of cold, temperatures never threatened to thaw at any point during the week, which has left a persistent snow pack with huge piles of snow where it was plowed in parking lots or due to wind drifts. Lake Michigan is reported to be 26% frozen and it is ice as far as visible in this area. Curiously, Hickory Creek remains in its liquid state. Wintery weather continues to cause traffic problems, school closures, and high demands on the electric grid. The full range of winter outdoor winter activities remain available. Snow often fell during high winds so data are probably lower than actual but are as follows: gauge catch 0.58 inches, snow 13 inches, snow water equivalent 0.86 inches. The snowpack this morning averaged nine inches. Hopefully the eventual thawing will be gradual but as long as freezing temperatures continue, conditions remain normal.