The primary risk associated with lake effect snow is the potential for moderate to severe clear icing in the lower atmosphere, up to 10,000 feet. This can pose significant hazards to aviation, particularly for pilots who may not anticipate such conditions due to the unremarkable appearance of snow showers on radar. The presence of supercooled droplets within snow clouds increases the likelihood of rime icing, which can affect aircraft performance and safety. Pilots operating in the Great Lakes and coastal regions should be especially cautious, as these areas are prone to lake effect snow during the winter season. The risk is heightened for low-altitude flights and during takeoff and landing phases.