The first ice of the 2025–2026 winter season has begun forming across Long Island, with drone footage capturing striking crystal-like patterns spreading over the waters of the Great South Bay.

The footage, recorded earlier this week, shows delicate, web-like ice formations developing as frigid temperatures gripped the region from December 14 through December 17. The freeze marks the first significant icing event of the season for the bay, signaling winter’s arrival after a relatively mild start to December.

Meteorologists note that this year’s first freeze arrived later than the historical average, which typically occurs in early November based on long-term climate data. The delayed icing reflects a warmer-than-usual start to the winter season, despite the recent cold snap pushing overnight temperatures well below freezing.

While visually striking, the early ice serves as a reminder for boaters, anglers, and waterfront communities to exercise caution as conditions continue to change. Officials warn that thin ice can be deceptive and unsafe, particularly during the early stages of seasonal freezing.

The Great South Bay’s transformation offers a dramatic snapshot of winter settling in across the region, with colder temperatures expected to maintain icy conditions in the days ahead.