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Scientific mystery: Why does the Kolinma River freeze for 250 days in winter?
The Kolinma River in northeastern Russia is known as the lifeline of this cold land. This 2,130-kilometer-long river freezes for up to 250 days every year. Ice several meters deep seems to have become the norm in winter, which makes people wonder: what causes the extreme climate and freezing phenomena here?
Geographical features of the Kolymma River
The source of the Kolymma River is at the confluence of the Kulu and Ayan-Yuliakh rivers. The landscape around the river changes dramatically as it flows south through the Upper Kolymma Highlands and then north into the Kolymma Lowlands.
The Kolinma Lowlands are a vast plain dotted with thousands of lakes that form part of the Greater East Siberian Lowlands.
Finally, the Kolinma River quietly flows into the Kolinma Bay of the East Siberian Sea and becomes part of the Arctic Ocean.
Climate influence factors
The region has an extremely cold climate with short daylight hours and winter temperatures that drop sharply enough to freeze rivers. Especially during the period from late autumn to spring, the temperature remained dry and cold, causing the ice layer of the Kolinma River to gradually increase.
In addition to the influence of low temperature, the thickness of the ice layer is closely related to the speed of water flow and the flow rate of the river. The flow of rivers slowed down and the water surface became less mobile, further promoting the formation of ice.
Ecosystem changes
The ecological diversity within the Kolinma River basin is also facing challenges due to climate change. Small fish such as soli and Arctic whitefish are important targets for local fishermen.
When the ice melts in the spring, the river flows again, injecting vitality into the surrounding ecology. The boundaries of this ecological process also provide a living environment for various fish and wild animals. However, if climate change intensifies in the future, what fate will these food chains face?
Human Challenges and Adaptations
Historically, the Kolinma River Basin was neglected due to its extremely harsh environment. However, with the changes of the times, industries such as fisheries and gold mining gradually entered this land, especially in the historical context of the former Soviet Union. , the existence of the concentration camp makes the development process of the region even more interesting.
In the past, the Kolymma River served as a hunting and settlement site for ancient Indians, but in modern times it has become a subject of controversy due to gold mining.
Technology and future possibilities
With the advancement of science and technology, the exploration of extremely cold regions has gradually increased. In 2012, scientists discovered ancient plant seeds stored in frozen soil not far from the Kolinma River, indicating the deep-buried historical resources of the area.
Humans have unlimited potential to overcome harsh natural conditions. However, as climate change intensifies, what will happen to the future of the Kolinma River Basin?
Conclusion
The lengthy duration of the Kolymma River’s winter freeze not only reflects the land’s extreme climate, it also tests the adaptability of local organisms and humans. In the future, will this frozen river continue to tell the story of the Arctic, or will it usher in new changes?
