Yosemite Nature Notes 9: Frazil Ice

The video explores the unique phenomenon of frazil ice in Yosemite, occurring in early spring. Frazil ice forms as small crystals of frozen mist, creating a slushy mass that flows like lava. This dynamic ice can impact infrastructure, causing damage to bridges and buildings. While it resembles snow, frazil ice is dangerous due to its unpredictable thickness and underlying water. The video also clarifies myths about its connection to snow cones. Frazil ice serves as a seasonal marker, indicating the transition from winter to spring in Yosemite.

What is frazil ice compared to in the video?

• A snowstorm

• A Slurpee

• A hailstorm

• A glacier

How does frazil ice affect the flow of Yosemite Creek?

• It evaporates the water

• It purifies the water

• It speeds up the flow

• It creates blockages

Why is frazil ice considered dangerous?

• It attracts wild animals

• It can be deceptive in appearance

• It is slippery

• It is extremely hot

What is the snow cone at Upper Yosemite Falls?

• A type of ice cream

• A large mound of ice and snow

• A waterfall

• A rock formation

Is there a direct connection between the snow cone and frazil ice?

• No, but they occur simultaneously

• Yes, they are the same

• No, they are unrelated

• Yes, one causes the other

When is frazil ice most commonly observed in Yosemite?

• December and January

• June and July

• September and October

• March and April

What unique winter phenomenon is mentioned alongside frazil ice?

• Horsetail Falls firefall

• El Capitan moonrise

• Glacier Point sunset

• Half Dome sunrise