A Natural Phenomenon, Rime Ice, Has Been Popping Up In Minnesota And It’s Breathtaking
All across the Land of 10,000 Lakes, natural phenomena of the earth and sky put on a spectacular show throughout the year. You might see the Northern Lights, ice stacking, or a mysterious disappearing waterfall – to name only a few examples. Today, we’d like to add another interesting natural phenomenon that you can find in Minnesota. It’s called rime ice, and it’s an absolutely beautiful addition to the winter season. Read on below to learn about this breathtaking phenomenon:
If you've taken a walk around Minnesota lately, you likely noticed just how incredibly beautiful it has been. This is in part thanks to a natural phenomenon called rime frost. It's the delicate, white ice that covers trees and other objects.
Rime ice is caused only by fog. It's different from the equally beautiful hoarfrost because it only occurs when it is foggy. Hoarfrost, on the other hand, can only occur on bright days.
Because Minnesota has had a cold spell with many foggy mornings, it makes sense that so many areas are covered in rime ice. The drops in the air interact with the freezing temperature and freezing objects, causing the frost.
Many of Minnesota's parks and trails have been busy with people going out to experience the rime frost for themselves. According to local news, the frost is especially thick around the Eagan area.
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
