Rare phenomenon: Strange 'Ice Grease' in St. Petersburg

Snow and ice are not uncommon in Russia, but sometimes this natural phenomenon creates unexpected scenes.

A rare natural phenomenon called Snezhura, or "fat ice", has appeared on the Ekateringofka River in St. Petersburg, Russia.

"Ice grease" is formed when snow falls on the water's surface to form an insoluble mass.

The Russian Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute has published the latest images of this phenomenon on social networks.

According to scientists, Snezhura was formed by heavy snowfall that made the temperature of the water almost zero. Snow falls on the water but does not melt, but coalesces into a flexible, plastic-like mass.

Many Russians are surprised by the strange phenomenon.

Some say Snezhura looks like "dumplings overcooked in a pot", or "slurry", "lava sinks in the riverbed".

In December 2021, a similar phenomenon appeared on the Moika River in St. Petersburg. The city was then covered by a heavy snowfall, freezing cold.

Phenomenon of 2021.