“Icy flowers” aren’t flowers in the traditional sense, but are intricate patterns formed by delicate frost formations found in winter.
This incredible phenomenon can be found in icy covered lakes or frozen surfaces along the coast.
The formation includes a temperature gradient: the air temperature needs to be significantly lower (and colder) than the water temperature (usually around -22°C (-7.6°F). This creates a temperature gradient between the cold air and the warm air.
The humid air meets this cold temperature, causing water vapor to freeze directly into the intricate, flower-like frost crystals. The process involves the air’s moisture condensing and freezing instantly upon contact with the ice surface, often forming delicate petals and branches.
These icy flowers are not only breathtaking and captivating but are also fragile and short-lived, as they can melt or blow away easily.
They’re especially a sight to behold under sunlight, reflecting light and creating a sparkling effect that draws photographers and nature enthusiasts.
