Niagara Falls partially frozen, Canada and USA
In this Copernicus Sentinel-2 image acquired on 27 January 2025, the partially frozen Niagara Falls can be seen from above.
Situated on the border between Canada and the USA, the Niagara Falls were partially frozen after an Arctic air mass passed through the region starting on 20 January, bringing historically cold temperatures for the month to some parts of the US. This cold front brought unusually low temperatures, reaching as low as -20°C in some areas, and creating breathtaking ice formations on the falls and surrounding areas.
While the Niagara Falls themselves did not completely freeze over due to the continuous flow of water, large portions of the water's edge and mist froze solid, transforming the landscape into a shimmering, icy wonderland. Ice bridges and frozen trees added to the spectacle, attracting large crowds of tourists hoping to take in the rare winter sight.
The Copernicus Sentinel satellites deliver free and open data which is used to monitor and map snow cover in areas around the world, providing insights to local authorities and communities for evidence-based decision-making.