Icicle facts for kids
Icicles are amazing spikes of ice that form when snow or ice melts and then refreezes. This usually happens on cold days when the air outside is below freezing, but the sun is shining brightly. The sunlight warms up snow or ice on a sloped surface, like a roof. As the water drips, it gets colder and colder. When it loses enough heat to the freezing air, it turns back into ice, forming a cool, cone-shaped spike.
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How Icicles Form and Grow
When water starts to drip from melting snow or ice, it begins to freeze as it flows downwards. This process of melting and refreezing builds up the icicle. As winter continues and temperatures stay cold, with some sunlight, more water melts and drips along the existing icicle. This makes the icicle grow longer and sharper. Icicles are often pointy because the water always drips in a downward direction. They can be tiny, just a few millimeters long, or they can grow to be several feet in length!
Where Icicles Appear
Icicles can form on many different surfaces. You often see them hanging from the edges of roofs, tree branches, or even power lines. They can also grow on bridges, fences, and street signs. Anywhere that snow or ice can melt and drip in freezing temperatures is a possible spot for an icicle to form.
Staying Safe Around Icicles
Even though icicles look beautiful, they can be quite dangerous. Large icicles can be very heavy. If they break off and fall, they can cause damage to buildings, cars, or other property. It's important to be careful when walking near places where icicles might be hanging, especially under roofs or bridges. Always look up and be aware of your surroundings during cold weather.
Images for kids
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Long bulbous icicles hang from a branch over a river
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Icicles on a tree
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Icicles gathered on a street sign in Eugene, Oregon
See also
In Spanish: Carámbano para niños
