Unique Ice Volcano Forms in Upstate New York Park

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A unique ice sculpture known as an "ice volcano" has formed in Letchworth State Park in Upstate New York due to the region's recent frigid temperatures. The ice volcano is created by a gravity-fed fountain system that forces water vertically through a spout, causing the water to freeze as it falls back down and accumulate over time into a cone-shaped structure.

Why it matters

The ice volcano has become a top winter attraction in Letchworth State Park, drawing visitors to see the impressive natural ice sculpture that can reach heights of over 30 feet due to the prolonged freezing temperatures in the region this year.

The details

The ice volcano is formed by a gravity-fed fountain system that pumps water from a higher-elevation reservoir or tank downhill into a chamber, which compresses the air and forces the water vertically through a spout. This creates a powerful fountain without the need for pumps. The quickly spraying water doesn't freeze right away, but as it falls back down and hits the surrounding surfaces, it begins to freeze. Over time, the accumulating ice builds up taller and wider, gradually taking on a cone-shaped appearance to create the ice volcano.

• The ice volcano has formed in Letchworth State Park during the recent frigid temperatures in the region.
• As of February 9, the ice volcano was reported to be about 30 feet tall.