Will Niagara Falls Disappear Some Day?
Yes, but no need to worry. Scientists estimate the world's second largest waterfall will disappear into Lake Erie 23,000 years from now!
That estimate is based on the fact that in the past 12,000 years the falls have moved south about 11 kilometres (7 miles) from Queenston/Lewiston.
The falls erode back because water wears away at the softer rock at the base of the cliff. Because of this, the cliff collapses and a new edge is created slightly upstream.
This rate of erosion depends on factors like the volume of water going over the edge, the height of the drop, and the type of rocks that make up the base of the waterfall.
Now, aren’t you glad we’re here today to see the Falls?