Posted in South Dakota
February 07, 2018
The Natural Phenomenon In South Dakota That Only Happens During Wintertime
All across South Dakota, winter temperatures cause frigid weather and plenty of ice, and Spearfish Canyon is no exception. In addition to the typical snow, frost and ice, there’s an odd natural phenomenon that happens in the canyon during wintertime. Keep scrolling to learn more.
Under a blanket of snow, the canyon is even more stunning.
When temperatures plunge to below freezing, Spearfish Creek also freezes...but it might not appear to be frozen. The rushing water in the creek continues to bubble and gurgle along like always. Why? Because unlike most creeks, Spearfish Creek freezes from the bottom up.
The water in the creek travels fast enough to discourage freezing. The water at the bottom of the creek is slowed down by the rocks and sand resting on its floor, which allows ice to form underneath the rushing water. While this natural phenomenon can occur elsewhere, it's fairly rare.
The phenomenon can also cause another issue: flooding. As the ice builds up on the bottom of the creek, it pushes the water level higher and higher, which can lead to the creek jumping its banks. During years when there's prolonged freezing temps, residents of Spearfish who live near the creek get busy protecting their property with sandbags. It's all just a small price to pay in order to live in one of the most beautiful towns in the state!
The water in the creek travels fast enough to discourage freezing. The water at the bottom of the creek is slowed down by the rocks and sand resting on its floor, which allows ice to form underneath the rushing water. While this natural phenomenon can occur elsewhere, it's fairly rare.
The phenomenon can also cause another issue: flooding. As the ice builds up on the bottom of the creek, it pushes the water level higher and higher, which can lead to the creek jumping its banks. During years when there's prolonged freezing temps, residents of Spearfish who live near the creek get busy protecting their property with sandbags. It's all just a small price to pay in order to live in one of the most beautiful towns in the state!
Have you witnessed this natural phenomenon in Spearfish Creek, and have you been affected by the creek flooding when it freezes?
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