The “frozen sea” phenomenon in Argentina was possible thanks to the combination of climatic factors, including the absence of wind
A video of a “sea of ice” in Argentina’s Patagonia region went viral this week, with images showing what appear to be waves frozen by the weather. However, the phenomenon can be explained by a combination of climatological factors, relatively common in some regions of the planet.
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What the images actually show are not the waves that froze instantly, but rather the natural wave motion of the sea in coastal regions. After all, in “common” weather conditions, the salt in the water would prevent the formation of ice crystals.
Furthermore, it is not possible for the waves to freeze instantly, as the constant movement of the water “breaks” the slow process of passing from the liquid to the solid state.
However, ideal conditions allow the “expulsion” of salt from the composition of the water, which allows the formation of the frozen surfaces shown in the video. The climatic characteristics required for this include:
- Coastal, shallow and isolated position
- Water temperatures below 0°C, generally between −2°C and −3°C
- Low ambient temperature
- No wind
- Calm waters, without waves
The thickness of this layer is approximately 15-20 centimeters. However, it is relatively volatile and tends to unravel as soon as conditions are not so favorable, which usually happens in a matter of days or weeks.
Although the video has attracted attention, the phenomenon is relatively common, especially in high-latitude places, i.e. near the Arctic and Antarctica. However, it is not as common in the Patagonia region, where the event was last recorded in 2020.
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Frozen sea in Tierra del Fuego. pic.twitter.com/JgeXrFMrBV
— Time AMBA (@Tiempo_AMBA) June 26, 2024
According to MetSul Meteorologia, the temperature measured in Patagonia reached levels between −10 °C and −15 °C, which can be considered essential even for the appearance of the “sea ice”.
The phenomenon may still be related to El Niño, which, combined with climate change, causes changes in atmospheric circulation and increases the frequency of snowfall.
Source: G1, MetSul Meteorology
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Source: Terra
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
