Definition of lake wind effects?

Question

trying to understand what a lake wind effect means in a weather forecast.

Answer 1

Those who sail on lakes know that lakes have their own wind systems (as well as prevailing winds of the region) and use the knowledge to great advantage.  Without a prevailing wind the sun will heat the surrounding land faster than the water causing air to rise all around the lake and all winds will blow toward shore.  With the sun down, the opposite occurs and the land cools faster than the water causing air to rise above the water.  All winds will be from the land toward the water.  There are of course lake-effect situations where for example the prevailing winds will blow moist air off a large lake (Great Lake) causing a plume of snow downwind of the lake.  Weather forecasters must report lake effects as well as wind conditions on a popular lake where there is significant boating.

Answer 2

A lake wind effect is an air current which the result of air currents moving over lakes and onto land surfaces. These winds carry moisture as they move across the lake and they either are warmed or cooled by the lake. Precipitation, warmer temperatures, and/or cooler temperatures can be in the forecast when winds blow over a lake and onto land.