Which of the following is characteristic of the waves created by NE winds on Lake Ontario?

Waves created by northeast winds on Lake Ontario can indeed reach significant heights, with reports indicating that they can be as high as 12 feet during particularly strong wind events. This is due to the action of sustained winds over the water surface, which builds wave energy and can lead to larger, more powerful waves. The size of these waves is influenced by several factors, including wind speed and duration, fetch (the distance over water that the wind blows), and the storm system in play.

In contrast, a serene environment is not characteristic of large waves but rather of calm conditions. While waves can occur during winter months, they are not limited to that season and can happen year-round whenever conditions are right. Lastly, waves exceeding 10 feet are not a constant feature; they can reach that height during severe weather but are not the norm. Therefore, the ability for these waves to reach heights as high as 12 feet showcases the potential severity and impact of northeast winds on Lake Ontario’s water conditions.