Impact of Temperature
According to many experts, the amount of extreme cold temperatures needed to freeze the Mississippi River are rarely seen. The average winter temperature of the region where the Mississippi River flows is 7C. The water needs to be cooler than 4C for a long period of time for it to freeze. Studies show that the scenarios in which the water freezes are limited and few in between due to the changing climate pattern.
Furthermore, as the temperature decreases, it is necessary to see the effect on the amount of water, including the Mississippi River. Lower temperatures can cause the amount of water to reduce – this then, in turn, increases the chances of freezing. Additionally, the salinity of the river changes in relation to the temperature – the warmer it is, the more diluted the salinity becomes. In the event that the water freezes, it can remain intact until it reaches 32F which is when the frozen water will melt.
The Mississippi River has seen freezing conditions only twice in the past decades; the first time being in 1989 and another time in 2018. While the water has frozen, it was due to the extreme cold conditions that affected the Mid-West states and beyond, and not only limited to the region the Mississippi River occupies. Both times the water was frozen on a considerable part of the river, while some areas do not freeze due to the constant motion of the water.
Changing Weather Conditions
Experts believe that in the future, it is likely that the Mississippi River will see some level of freezing as the weather continues to change. Slight variations in temperatures could create significant changes in the river that could lead to freezing. As and when the temperature dips, and other conditions such as the level of salinity are right, then there is a higher possibility of the water to freeze.
Shifting patterns in weather can alsoaffect the freeze level of the Mississippi River. Sudden gusts of cold winds combined with the temperature falling a few degrees, or increases in humidity may result in the Mississippi River freezing over. Additionally, the pollution present in the river can affect the freezing rate of the water. pollutants such as petrol and oil can lower the freezing point and make it easier for the river to freeze.
In the long run, it is important to consider the risks associated with the Mississippi River freezing. Flooding is a potential concern, as well as frozen levees. In the event of extremely cold weather, the river could freeze unexpectedly, resulting in potential flooding in certain areas. Furthermore, frozen levees could cause mud flats, meaning that the level of water can drop substantially. In the event of a major flood, the levees are the first points of defence, so a fully frozen river could pose a major problem.
Collaboration and Preparedness
Given the uncertainty of the weather patterns, a major focus needs to be on collaboration and having the right level of preparedness. With agencies such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), local and state governments, as well as non-profit organisations, coordination and cooperation are essential. Furthermore, a greater awareness of the significance of having an effective plan can significantly reduce the risks associated with a frozen Mississippi River.
It is also important for people living in the area of the Mississippi River to be informed of the potential dangers. Preparedness is the key to having the right plan in place. Keeping track of the temperature, wind and other weather patterns can be crucial in recognizing potential deviations in temperatures that could lead to the Mississippi River freezing.
Furthermore, it is important to recognize the shift in temperatures and mechanisms in place that can help mitigate the risks associated with a frozen river. Programs such as flood insurance can help to reduce the overall financial impact of potentially flooding areas, while other initiatives such as the building of dykes to prevent flooding can be employed.
Agricultural Impact
When the Mississippi River freezes, a major impact is felt on the agricultural industry in the region. It directly affects the livelihood of many farmers and producers in the area, as
