A record-breaking polar vortex has gripped North America, plunging temperatures to as low as -20 degrees Celsius and turning the mighty Niagara Falls into a frozen spectacle. Huge sections of the falls have been encased in thick ice, with mist freezing instantly to create intricate crystalline structures on nearby trees and railings.

While the water continues to flow beneath the ice, the visual effect is that of a stationary "winter palace," attracting thousands of photographers and brave tourists. The local tourism board has issued safety warnings, urging visitors to stay within designated viewing areas as the extreme cold can be hazardous.

Scientists state that while Niagara Falls rarely freezes completely, this level of icing is the most significant seen in over a decade. The extreme weather has also led to school closures and power outages in the surrounding region. The "Ice Wonderland" is expected to persist for at least another week as the polar vortex shows no signs of moving.