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.

Rare phenomenon: Strange 'Ice Grease' in St. Petersburg Picture 1
"Ice grease" is formed when snow falls on the water's surface to form an insoluble mass.

Rare phenomenon: Strange 'Ice Grease' in St. Petersburg Picture 2
The Russian Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute has published the latest images of this phenomenon on social networks.

Rare phenomenon: Strange 'Ice Grease' in St. Petersburg Picture 3
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.

Rare phenomenon: Strange 'Ice Grease' in St. Petersburg Picture 4
Many Russians are surprised by the strange phenomenon.

Rare phenomenon: Strange 'Ice Grease' in St. Petersburg Picture 5
Some say Snezhura looks like "dumplings overcooked in a pot", or "slurry", "lava sinks in the riverbed".

Rare phenomenon: Strange 'Ice Grease' in St. Petersburg Picture 6
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.

Rare phenomenon: Strange 'Ice Grease' in St. Petersburg Picture 7
Phenomenon of 2021.