In which direction do autumn gales on Lake Ontario primarily blow?

Autumn gales on Lake Ontario primarily blow from the southwest to the northwest due to prevailing weather patterns in the region. During the fall, temperature differences between the land and the lake can lead to the formation of strong winds. The geographic orientation and the climatic conditions often result in winds that originate from the southwest, where they gather strength as they traverse the lake before moving northwest across the water. This wind pattern can create significant wave action and impacts on local weather conditions, making it essential for boaters and those near the lake to understand.

Other options do not reflect the typical wind behavior during autumn on Lake Ontario. For instance, winds blowing from the north to south would not align with expected meteorological conditions in the fall season, while easterly winds are less common given the geographical layout and prevailing winds in the region. Similarly, southeast to northwest winds are not the primary patterns observed in autumn gales, which further distinguishes the correct answer regarding the direction of these powerful winds.