Jääpurikas

Jääpurikas is the Finnish word for icicle. Icicles are common natural phenomena that form when meltwater from snow or ice freezes as it drips. The typical shape is a tapering spike, hanging downwards from a horizontal surface. The formation process involves a continuous cycle of melting and refreezing. As the temperature fluctuates around the freezing point of water, surface layers of snow or ice can melt. This meltwater then trickles down, and if the ambient temperature is below freezing, the water begins to freeze as it encounters the colder air. The process continues as more water drips and freezes, gradually extending the icicle.

The size and shape of icicles can vary greatly depending on factors such as the amount of meltwater, air temperature, wind, and the surface from which they are hanging. They are most commonly found in cold climates during winter and early spring. While often seen as decorative or picturesque, icicles can also pose safety hazards. Large or heavy icicles can fall and cause injury or damage. In some cases, icicle formation can be an indicator of insulation problems or ice dams on buildings, where snow melts and then refreezes at the eaves, preventing proper drainage and potentially leading to water damage.