Scootercam's Lake Michigan

Sunset Forecast

it's science!

Tonight's Sunset Forecast

74/100
Grade: B-
Sunset: 7:02 PM
10% clouds
10km vis
40% humidity
1.4 mph

Contributing Factors:

  • Clear sky (10%)
  • Excellent visibility (10km)
  • Good humidity (40%)
  • Very calm (1.4 mph)
  • Clear conditions
  • Comfortable temp (65°F)

3-Day Evening Forecast

Thu, Oct 16 5:00 PM
clear sky
10% clouds • 10km vis
74
B-
Thu, Oct 16 8:00 PM
few clouds
15% clouds • 10km vis
100
A+
Fri, Oct 17 5:00 PM
overcast clouds
100% clouds • 10km vis
85
A-

Understanding Scootercam's Sunset Forecast

What Makes Lake Michigan Sunsets Special?

  • Unobstructed horizon: Nothing blocks the sun's path
  • Lake reflection: Water doubles the visual impact
  • Optimal clouds: 25-55% coverage creates the best canvas
  • Clean lake air: Less pollution = vivid colors

Scoring Explained

85-100: Spectacular - don't miss it!

70-84: Very good - worth your time

50-69: Decent - nice but not extraordinary

Below 50: Skip it or low expectations

Best Viewing

  • Timing: 30 min before to 15 min after sunset
  • Seasons: Fall/Winter offer dramatic conditions
  • Locations: Any west-facing beach works
  • Stay late: Best colors often come after sunset

How Scootercam Calculate Scores

Real-time data from OpenWeatherMap combined with Lake Michigan-specific scoring:

  • Cloud Coverage (40 pts): 25-55% optimal for Lake Michigan
  • Visibility (25 pts): Critical over water for color intensity
  • Humidity (20 pts): 45-75% enhances color saturation
  • Wind (15 pts): 5-15 mph creates ideal clarity
  • Weather Type (15 pts): Partly cloudy beats clear or stormy