Watch: Niagara Falls mist turns to ice as temperatures plunge below −20°Celsius

Niagara Falls freezes at -20°C as mist turns to ice. (Image: X/@earthcurated)

• Polar vortex froze mist at Niagara Falls, coating cliffs and trees in ice.
• Niagara Falls rarely freezes completely; flowing water seldom solidifies.
• Scientists study frozen mist to learn about ice formation and river dynamics.

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A powerful polar vortex has hit the Niagara Falls region. Temperatures dropped below -20 degrees Celsius this week. The icy cold has frozen much of the rising mist. Water still flows over the falls, unstoppable despite the freezing.

Niagara Falls: The Frozen Waterfall

The mist rising from the falls quickly freezes in the sub-zero air. Cliffs, railings and nearby trees are coated with shimmering ice layers. Some sections of the Niagara River near the falls also freeze. Rainbow effects occasionally appear through the icy spray, adding striking colour. The temperature dropped to -20 degrees Celsius.

Is this a Rare or Frequent Phenomenon?

Complete freezing of Niagara Falls is extremely rare. Most winters produce ice formations only on edges and surrounding rocks. Partial icing occurs occasionally during exceptionally cold polar vortex events. But seeing this much frozen mist is uncommon and attracts global attention.

What Scientists Are Saying? 

Experts explain that mist freezes while flowing water rarely solidifies. The extreme cold and calm air allow ice to form rapidly. Polar vortices are unusual atmospheric events, driven by shifts in the Arctic. They can cause record-breaking cold across North America and other regions.

❄️| Extreme cold freezes the iconic Niagara Falls. pic.twitter.com/oyCw7mlTCe

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— Earth (@earthcurated) January 26, 2026

Is There a Need to Worry?

Despite icy spectacle, the falls continue flowing beneath frozen mist. Water never fully freezes, so structural danger is minimal here. Slippery surfaces can lead to accidents, prompting temporary area closures. No long-term hazards exist from temporary freezing during extreme winter events.

How Science Sees This Phenomenon?

Polar vortices are caused by sudden shifts in Arctic jet streams. They push extremely cold air southwards, creating record-breaking winter temperatures. Mist freezes faster than flowing water due to smaller droplet size. This explains why cliffs and vegetation are coated but water flows.

Scientists study frozen mist to understand ice formation and river dynamics. It also provides insight into how extreme cold affects natural systems. Researchers note these events are rare but provide valuable climate data.