Canada's Abraham Lake, a captivating yet perilous spectacle of methane bubbles under ice

This surreal phenomenon wasn't a quirk of nature but was artificially created. In the 1970s, the construction of the Bighorn Dam led to the creation of the water reservoir, separating the water from the adjacent river. Initially, Abraham Lake didn't exhibit anything out of the ordinary until its surface froze. Upon freezing, numerous gas bubbles began to appear in the water, filled not with air but with flammable methane gas.

The lake further enhances the area's beautiful winter landscape. The gas bubbles beneath the lake's ice sheet are a result of bacteria breaking down organic matter within the reservoir. The region's flooding submerged the plentiful flora and organisms therein, which eventually settled onto the lake bed. Bacteria continue decomposing the settled matter, inadvertently producing methane. Methane, a flammable gas, is known to retain heat 25 times more efficiently than carbon dioxide, classifying it as a greenhouse gas. This potent gas aggravates the issue of global warming, thereby contributing to climate change.

Despite the environmental implications, the mesmerizing spectacle of shifting light and bubbles lures many visitors. However, this fascination isn't without risk. Methane, a flammable gas, can be extremely dangerous, and any spark near the lake poses a significant risk. Currently, there aren't any prohibitions in place, and tourists are free to roam the reservoir's bank.

The lake's captivating beauty attracts tourists, photographers, and even skaters, hoping to glide on the icy surface and circumnavigate the reservoir. However, it's advisable to resist the temptation and merely admire the spectacle from the safety of the shoreline. Locals suggest the period between December and March as the ideal time to enjoy the spectacle since the effect of the bubbles is most prominent then. Intriguingly, the ice cover at Abraham Lake remains consistently exposed as robust winds deter snow from blanketing the surface.

There is a prime viewpoint - Preachers Point, that offers a panoramic view of the entire lake. It's located at a safe distance, and thus poses no danger to visitors. The sight of the turquoise sheet riddled with countless milky gas bubbles is indeed an unforgettable sight. However, it's crucial to be cognizant of the ominous aspect associated with the beauty of this place.