Kazakh residents witnessed a unique phenomenon at the Kapshagay Reservoir in the Almaty region, where delicate "ice flowers" bloomed on the thin ice surface. These formations resemble intricate white petals with sharp edges, Zakon.kz reports.
After extensive research, scientists determined that the formation of these peculiar crystals is primarily influenced by a specific temperature difference between the air and water, as well as the thickness of the ice layer.
For ice flowers to "bloom" on the surface, the ice must be extremely thin, with its temperature around 0°C, while the air temperature must drop below -20°C. Another crucial factor is the complete absence of wind—absolute calm conditions are essential.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
February 12, 2025