By Tim Binnall
A city in Maine is celebrating the return of a massive ice disk floating atop a river after the wondrous winter phenomenon sparked something of sensation three years ago. Tourists and media outlets from around the world descended upon the community of Westbrook back in 2019 when an enormous rotating circle of ice appeared on the Presumpscot River. Measuring 300 feet in diameter, the amazing sight proved to be a popular attraction for a few weeks before melting away and becoming merely a memory.
That is until earlier this week when residents noticed a familiar shape emerging on the river. By Tuesday, it was clear that the ice disk, which one local TV station proudly called "world famous," was back. Unlike its predecessor from 2019, this formation is frozen in place for now, though it could presumably wind up rotating at some point in the future should it become dislodged from the frosty shore. The disk's stationary status has not dampened enthusiasm for the phenomenon as it has already begun drawing excited onlookers.
Despite its otherworldly appearance, the disk was not created by a USO cruising the waters of the Presumpscot River as it is a natural phenomenon that occurs when a chunk of ice gets spun by a water current and, in the process, its sides become smooth from friction with the shore. While that explanation may disappoint ET enthusiasts, the breathtaking product of Mother Nature is a testament to the fantastic sights that can be found right here on Earth.