The art of avoiding floods: choreographed ice fountains as Emergencies Ministry unclogs Amur River

Such explosions are common at this time of year - but not always as aesthetic. 

Carried out by the Russian Emergencies Ministry, the aim is to prevent walls of ice behind which the river level rises, posing a threat to remote settlements. 

A team of 16 and four pieces of equipment were involved in the ice clearance, say reports. 

The art of avoiding floods. Pictures from the Far East of Russia courtesy Ministry of Emergencies

Ice removal was carried out near Ushakovo and Novovoskresenovka villages in Shimanovsky district as well as Skovorodinsky district. 

The best views were perhaps from China - which lies across the river, at this point the frontier.

Despite the impressive ice fireworks, critics say this is not the most eco-friendly way to clear ice. 

Yet the strategy is effective and signals that spring and summer are soon on the way. 

Pictures and video: Russian Ministry of Emergency