The Yenisey River is widely known as the river that, in certain significant sections, remarkably never freezes, even amidst the harsh Siberian winters.
The Unique Phenomenon of the Yenisey River
Despite flowing through one of the coldest regions on Earth, specific stretches of the Yenisey River maintain a unique ice-free status throughout the winter months. This characteristic is often attributed to the discharge of warmer water from the Krasnoyarsk Hydroelectric Power Plant, located downstream from the city of Krasnoyarsk, which prevents ice formation for a considerable distance. This distinctive feature earns the Yenisey its reputation as "the river that never freezes."
Geographical Origin and Course
The formidable journey of the Yenisey River originates in Mongolia. Its initial formation stems from the convergence of two principal headwaters:
- Biy Khem (also referred to as the Big Yenisey)
- Kaa Khem (known as the Small Yenisey)
These two powerful rivers unite in Kyzyl city, the capital of the Tyva Republic in Russia. From this confluence, the Yenisey embarks on a vast northward course, flowing for an impressive distance of more than 4,000 kilometers before ultimately discharging its immense volume into the Arctic Ocean.
Extensive Tributary System
The Yenisey River is nourished by a vast network of tributaries throughout its extensive path. Among these numerous contributing rivers, the most notable is the Angara River. The Angara holds a significant distinction as it is the sole natural outlet for the waters of Lake Baikal, the world's deepest freshwater lake. This connection highlights the Yenisey's crucial role in the hydrological dynamics of Central Siberia.
Key Facts About the Yenisey River
Here is a summary of essential information about the Yenisey River:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Notable Feature | Known for significant sections that remain ice-free even in winter, earning it the moniker "the river that never freezes." |
| Origin Point | Mongolia; formed by the meeting of Biy Khem (Big Yenisey) and Kaa Khem (Small Yenisey) in Kyzyl city, Tyva Republic. |
| Flow Direction | Predominantly Northward |
| Ultimate Basin | Arctic Ocean |
| Total Length | Over 4,000 kilometers (making it one of the longest river systems globally) |
| Main Tributary | Angara River, which is the only natural outflow from Lake Baikal. |
The Yenisey River stands as a remarkable natural wonder, showcasing how geological features and even human intervention can influence environmental conditions in extreme climates.
