Mist on FireHorseshoe Falls in Winter
First, let's get the record straight. Despite all of the media frenzy, Niagara Falls are not frozen. Not the American Falls, not the Bridal Veil Falls, and not the Horseshoe Falls (Canadian Falls). All three waterfalls are flowing, roaring, and falling strong! However, there certainly is a lot of ice. Especially in front of the American Falls there is quite a mound of ice significantly obstructing the view of the falls, especially from the Canadian side. And there is quite a bit of ice above the falls too in the upper rapids.
So why do the waterfalls not freeze despite the recent temperatures dropping as low as -10°F (-23°C)? The sheer volume and force of the water does not allow for that. 75,750 gallons (286,744 liters) of water per second flow over the American and Bridal Veil Falls and 681,750 gallons (2,580,704 liters) per second over the Horseshoe Falls.
Have fun and keep warm!
References: Amazing Niagara Falls Facts, World's Largest Waterfalls by Volume, What's the Largest Waterfall in the World?, 10 Widest Waterfalls
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