With the blistering cold continuing in New York City, we here at the Newtown Creek Alliance have had many people asking if Newtown Creek freezes. The answer is YES, the Creek does freeze, and there is much more happening below the surface too!
Historically, winters in New York City were much colder than they are today, creating extreme conditions that allowed people to trek across waterways, including the East River. Nowadays, the shallow tucked-away tributaries of the Creek freeze first, especially farther upstream where the water moves more slowly. Tugboats and barges moving fuel, waste, and materials through the winter typically break up frozen areas in the main channel, but this cold streak has produced huge amounts of ice and frozen sections throughout the harbor. Some winter fowl may have a more difficult time navigating the frozen waters, and under the surface, some fish species migrate to deeper, warmer water, while others stay year-round, slowing down their metabolism and riding out the cold.
If you can, make your way down to the water this winter to see the frozen conditions for yourself. Stay safe and stay warm!
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With the blistering cold continuing in New York City, we here at the Newtown Creek Alliance have had many people asking if Newtown Creek freezes. The answer is YES, the Creek does freeze, and there is much more happening below the surface too!