Types of waterfall
Segmented waterfalls
The flow splits into separate strands as it falls.
The flow splits into separate strands as it falls.
In a segmented waterfall, rocks or islands on the lip break the river into several separate falls side by side. The number and size of the segments often changes with the season — one broad curtain in flood can become a row of distinct streams in the dry months.
How to recognise one
Look for several parallel falls separated by rock, trees or islands at the top.
For the geology behind the shapes, read how waterfalls form.
34 examples
Segmented waterfalls to visit
Full guide Iguazú Falls
World's largest waterfall system by combined width
Jog Falls
India's second-tallest plunge waterfall
UNESCO Seven Sisters Waterfall
Centerpiece of the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord
UNESCO Twin Falls
A twin-stream falls reachable only by 4WD and boat
James Bruce Falls
James Bruce Falls is a waterfall in British Columbia, Canada, the highest-measured waterfall of North America…
Nohsngithiang Falls
Nohsngithiang Falls is a seven-segmented waterfall located 1 kilometre south of Mawsmai village in East Khasi…
Tueeulala Falls
Tueeulala Falls is located on the north side of Hetch Hetchy Valley in Yosemite National Park. At roughly 880…
Blencoe Falls
The Blencoe Falls is a segmented waterfall on the Blencoe Creek, located in Kirrama, Tablelands Region, in…
Ryūzu Falls
Ryūzu Falls is a waterfall located upstream from the Yukawa River which makes its way into Lake Yunoko and…
Latefossen
One of Norway's most photographed twin waterfalls
Tad Fane Falls
Laos's tallest twin waterfall
Nanatsu Falls
Nanatsu Falls is a waterfall located in the city of Tsuruoka, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan, on a branch of the…