Over the weekend, a powerful winter storm system swept across Ontario, transforming Niagara Falls into a breathtaking, icy wonderland.
While the sheer volume of water of roughly 20 million gallons per minute makes it virtually impossible for the Falls to freeze solid, the current sub-zero temperatures and high winds have created a stunning partially frozen illusion that has captivated its recent visitors.
Niagara Parks shared a series of photos on their socials this week of the remarkable sight, where parts of the falls look as though they have been frozen in time. This is due to a phenomenon where the mist and spray from the thundering water settle on the surrounding rocks, railings, and even the face of Niagara Falls itself.
As well, huge masses of ice have begun to accumulate at the base of the Falls. In some years, this “ice bridge” can grow to be ten stories thick, stretching across the Niagara River and connecting Canada to the United States. The constant freezing mist has also coated every nearby tree and lamppost in a thick, translucent layer of ice, making the Queen Victoria Park area look like a scene from a fairy tale.
There are two main reasons why Niagara Falls won’t fully freeze. First, kinetic energy – the massive volume of water moves with such velocity and force that the sheer energy creates heat, keeping the water fluid even when air temperatures plummet well below zero.
Secondly, the ice boom; Since 1964, a 1.7-mile floating “ice boom” made of steel pontoons has been installed at the mouth of the Niagara River near Lake Erie. This prevents large chunks of lake ice from clogging the river, which historically caused the Falls to stop by creating a dam.
The only time Niagara Falls actually stopped was in March 1848, when an ice jam at the neck of the river blocked the water flow for 30 hours. People actually walked out onto the riverbed to find artifacts and bayonets from the War of 1812.
If you’re heading to Niagara Falls this week, be sure to bundle up! The wind chill makes it feel significantly colder. While visiting, don’t miss the final days of the Niagara Winter Festival of Lights, or tour the falls while staying warm indoors at their epic immersive flying ride.