New U-M animation illustrates worst possible place for a Great Lakes oil spill

A new animated video by the U-M and the National Wildlife Federation shows how devastating an oil spill beneath the Straits of Mackinac would be for the Great Lakes, wildlife and surrounding communities.

The animation shows effects of a potential oil spill could reach popular tourist destinations like Mackinac Island, blanket 50 miles of Lake Huron shoreline, and reach Lake Michigan landmarks such as Beaver Island.

The Straits of Mackinac connect Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. The five-mile channel generates powerful currents that can create a flow of water more than 10 times greater than the flow over Niagara Falls.

“Hopefully, these simulations and animations will be useful in understanding and preparing for potential impacts,” says David Schwab, research scientist at the U-M Water Center and creator of the animation.”

Learn more

More Regional Stories