The Blue Nile

The Blue Nile, also known as the Abbai in Ethiopia, is one of the sources for the great Nile River.  The Blue Nile River alone, contributs more than 85% of the total Nile river water.  Beginning at Lake Tana (the largest lake in Ethiopia), the Blue Nile runs across Ethiopia and into Sudan where it connects with the White Nile at Khartoum.

The Blue Nile runs between 850 and 907 miles or so.  The difference in distance is a result of the gorge the river runs through.  For millions of years the Blue Nile has carved into the Ethiopian lands creating a gorge nearly as deep as the Grand Canyon.  Along with gorges, the river passes through rapids, canyons and lakes.

The flow of the river is caused by the Blue Nile Falls also known as the Tissisat Falls, where millions of gallons of water spill over the 145-foot high falls, spray a great mist that soaks the nearby countryside and creating a beautiful rainbow above.  The river flows at its greatest between the months of June and September, the rainy time of year.

During the rainy season Lake Tana floods, pushing more water down the Blue Nile, causing it to flood over as well.  However, unlike most floods, this flood is welcome.  This yearly flood provides water for the crops and fresh, rich top soil for planting new crops.  

Since the times of the Ancient Egyptians, the Blue Nile has provided life, food and transportation for those who live along the Nile Valley.

sources:
http://www.new7wonders.com
http://www.bluenileriver.org
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