Overview
The Mississippi River is the second-longest river in the United States and is vital for U.S. commerce, transportation, industry, and recreation. A key factor in the river’s characteristics is its ability to freeze over. Whether or not the Mississippi River has ever frozen is a highly debated topic that draws attention from experts in many fields.
Path of the Mississippi
The Mississippi River begins in Lake Itasca, Minnesota, and flows southward for more than 2,350 miles, eventually joining the Atchafalaya River near New Orleans, Louisiana and eventually the Gulf of Mexico. The river is prone to flooding due to rain, snow, and spring thaw, but has also experienced periods of drought. It is divided into multiple navigation pools, created by dams and locks that keep the water at a relatively constant depth and also allow commercial ships to pass through.
Climatic Response of the Mississippi River
The location of the Mississippi River in the northern part of the United States enables it to experience cold winter temperatures, which can lead to the river freezing over. However, the turbulent currents and the heat release from large shipping vessels make it extremely difficult for thick chunks of ice to form on the river, limiting the chances of the Mississippi River freezing as compared to other bodies of water. Additionally, the myriad of tributaries that feed into the Mississippi River release warmer water downstream, further reducing the possibility of the river freezing.
Historical Perspective
Despite its unusually warm climate, records indicate that the Mississippi River has frozen over in the past. Reports date back to the very beginning of European settlement in the region, with freezing commonly occurring further up the river, where the water is shallower and more prone to freezing. The winter of 1914 was particularly cold, and the Mississippi River froze in most areas as far south as Saint Louis, Missouri. Traffic across the river also ceased, with clothing and ice skates becoming the only form of river transportation.
Consequence of Extreme Temperatures on the Mississippi
The extreme weather on the Mississippi can have serious consequences for its ecologies. When the river is consistently cold, the fish and invertebrates are affected by the decrease in oxygen levels in the water. This can result in a mass extinction of certain species and can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem. Additionally, during colder periods, the rate of decomposition of organic matter decreases, leading to a buildup of organic pollutants in the river.
Experts’ Opinion
Experts from various fields agree that typically, the hydrology of the Mississippi River prevents full freezing. Research conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey concludes that despite occasional freezing, the river rarely experiences sustained frozen periods. According to Dr. John Powelson, a water resource expert, the chances of the river freezing are extremely slim. He states, “The Mississippi is fed by thousands of streams and tributaries that release warmer water downstream. This makes it highly unlikely for the river to freeze. In cases of extreme cold, the waters in the shallower, northern parts of the Mississippi River can freeze temporarily, but this rarely happens.”
Analysis
It is clear from the experts’ opinions that the Mississippi River rarely freezes over. Despite periods of extreme cold temperatures in the past, the turbulent currents, the heat release from large shipping vessels, and the influx of warm water from tributaries make it extremely difficult for thick pieces of ice to form. This can have detrimental impacts on the river’s ecology, including a depletion of oxygen in its waters and a buildup of organic pollutants.
Innovations in River Protection
Despite developments in river protection technology, the Mississippi still faces a number of challenges. To help prevent river flooding, the Army Corps of Engineers has implemented an ice-prevention policy, which includes flood control structures, dyke systems, and other interventions.
Environmental Challenges
In addition to its vulnerability to flooding, the Mississippi River is threatened by other forms of environmental degradation. Constant industrial runoff and agricultural fertilizer has made the river unsuitable for aquatic life and has caused a decrease in the river’s biodiversity. Increasing temperatures due to global warming have further aggravated this issue.
Conclusion
The effects of flooding, pollution, and climate change on the Mississippi River are concerning, as it is not only important to the ecology and economy of the region, but also provides essential drinking water for millions of people. Residents should take action to reduce their impacts on the river, such as participating in clean-up efforts, using chemical-free fertilizers, and following the recommendations of local water management agencies.
