Khone Phapheng Falls

Todd Sain Sr.

2 days ago

Source: https://tinyurl.com/bd6xk45t Photo: Hiroo Yamagata CCL: https://tinyurl.com/yswn2ycv

Khone Phapheng Falls Facts

This simultaneously beautiful and powerful formation most frequently goes by the common name of Khone Phapheng Falls, when translated to English. Yet, it also has a few other titles by which it’s known. These include the shorter versions Khone Falls and Phapheng Falls.
However, this marvel of natural processes also holds yet another appellation sometimes applied to it. That’s the nickname of Niagara of the East. The waterfall bears this epithet due to its extremely large size and flow, comparing it to the famous Niagara Falls in North America.
Local Indigenous Peoples long knew of the existence of this wonder of Nature, of course. European explorers did not learn of it until the late 19th century, though. French explorers Ernest Doudart de Lagrée and Francis Garnier were among the most noted, from 1866-1868.
The breathtaking feature holds multiple distinctions that earn it a place of note among scientists and Nature lovers alike. In terms of flow rate, most lists place it fourth in the world. Its total width, however, ranks it as the largest known waterfall found anywhere on the planet.
Fortunately, the magnificent Khone Phapheng Falls now lies within a protected area. It’s situated within the Siphandone (Si Phan Don) region, which means “Four Thousand Islands” in the native language of the region of the globe in which this water-based wonder formed.
Sadly, the cascade nevertheless still face multiple environmental threats, most of which stem from the actions of mankind. These particularly include the potential construction of a proposed hydropower development projects on the river of which it forms an important part.

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Source: https://tinyurl.com/dk9xzthy Photo: PIERRE ANDRE LECLERCQ
CCL: https://tinyurl.com/yswn2ycv

Khone Phapheng Falls Physical Description

The mind-blowing Khone Phapheng Falls never fails to amaze and bewilder those fortunate enough to visit the site, and behold the sight. That’s due to the unsurpassed combination of multiple qualities, not the least of which is the sheer, almost indescribable dimensions of the waterfall.

As previously mentioned, this otherworldly creation of geological processes is the widest such formation on earth. But just saying that doesn’t give a true conception of its vastness. Comprised of multiple channels, it stretches an astounding 35,376 ft (10,783 m) from one side to the other!

Incredibly, it’s actually comprised not merely of a single vertical drop, like many such features, but a collection of rapids, islands, and rocky channels. The falls formed as made up of a series of smaller cascades that break up the river into multiple streams, making navigation impossible.

Water isn’t its only remarkable aspect, though. That’s because within its confines lie literally thousands of small, rocky islands. Countless sandbars also dot the same area, further adding to its unique aspect. Combined, these serve to create powerful, rushing currents at the top of the falls.

In contrast, though, the vertical drop of Khone Phapheng Falls remains relatively modest in size. Despite its astonishing width, at its highest point the cascade only plunges around 69 ft (21 m). However, the combination of the wide river and its forceful flow creates an impressive sight.

Given its dimensions, it’s not surprising that the waterfall boasts a mind-boggling rate of flow. On average, this aspect measures an already staggering 390,000 cu ft/s (11,000 cu m/s). But, its highest ever measured flow rate topped off at a bewildering 1,700,000 cu ft/s (49,000 cu m/s).

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Khone Phapheng Falls Location, Formation, and Ecology

The mesmerizing Khone Phapheng Falls formed in a region of the world that’s already well known for its abundance of natural splendor. That placement therefore likely won’t surprise many of you. Nature created the remarkable cascade as part of what’s now known as the continent of Asia.

There, it sits within the approximate southeast portion of the greater landmass. It further forms part of the majestic Mekong River. Its precise placement puts it in the Champasak Province, inside the borders of the nation of Laos. That region itself lies in the general southern part of the country.

The region where this waterfall formed lies near tectonic boundaries. Over countless millions of years, tectonic movements created uneven rock formations along the riverbed. This action inexorably contributed to the varying elevation levels that remain essential to waterfall formation.

The continuous flow of the river eroded the softer sedimentary rock in certain areas while leaving behind harder, more resistant rock formations. This created the steps and drops characteristic of the falls. The river’s high water volume and flow also contributed to the shaping of the landscape.

The Mekong River additionally experiences a steep drop in elevation at its location. This allows the river to cascade over the rocks and islands, creating the rapids and waterfalls. This combination of geological activity, river dynamics, and erosion gave rise to the unique and powerful cascade.

This site supports a vast and varied ecosystem. The falls form a natural barrier, preventing fish from migrating upstream, which led to the development of unique fish populations both above and below the falls. Notable species present include the highly endangered Mekong giant catfish.

The turbulent waters around Khone Phapheng Falls create distinct habitats that support endemic species that exist only in this particular region. The rocky outcrops and islands themselves also support a range of aquatic plants, algae, and invertebrates adapted to the fast-flowing waters.

Avian species also abound in the area. The falls support a significant habitat for a variety of bird species, including migratory and endemic species. Wetlands and the small islands created by the river and falls offer resting and feeding areas for birds like the river tern and lesser adjutant stork.

The lush, tropical vegetation along the riverbank surrounding the falls includes a mix of trees, shrubs, and aquatic plants that provide critical habitats for wildlife. This stabilizes the riverbanks, prevents soil erosion, and contributes to the overall health of the Mekong River ecosystem.