Niagara Falls: A short journey to an epic waterfall

There are several falls that make up what is collectively known as Niagara Falls. Here are some quick facts.

Length of brink: 1060 feet
Height: 176 feet
Volume of water: 150,000 US Gallons per second

While the actual amount of water varies this is a representative average. There are two hydroelectric plants which draw water into their reservoirs prior to the Falls. Their intake greatly affects the volume of water flowing over the falls. The amount of water being siphoned away depends on two variables: the time of year and the time of the day. Flow is greatest in the daytime during peak tourist season (June, July, and August). In the event of an emergency the flow can be somewhat reduced by the hydroelectric companies increasing their intake. The Bridal Veil Falls is named for its appearance. It is located next to the American falls, separated by a small piece of land called Luna Island.

Video Shot by: Rob Nelson and Jonas Stenstrom

Written by Rob Nelson

Rob is an ecologist from the University of Hawaii. He is the co-creator and director of Untamed Science. His goal is to create videos and content that are entertaining, accurate, and educational. When he's not making science content, he races whitewater kayaks and works on Stone Age Man.

Published: 10/13

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