The Three Great Rivers of Siberia: Ob, Yenisei, and Lena

Siberia's Arteries: Flowing North to the Arctic

Three colossal rivers dominate Siberia's hydrology, each among the world's longest. All flow northward across vast basins, draining into the Arctic Ocean.

1. Ob River

• Length: 3,650 km (2,268 mi)
• Source: Altai Mountains
• Mouth: Gulf of Ob (Kara Sea)
• Basin: 2,990,000 km²
• Major Tributaries: Irtysh, Tom, Chulym, Ket

2. Yenisei River

• Length: 3,487 km (2,167 mi)
• Source: Sayan Mountains
• Mouth: Kara Sea
• Basin: 2,580,000 km²
• Major Tributaries: Angara, Podkamennaya Tunguska, Lower Tunguska

3. Lena River

• Length: 4,400 km (2,734 mi) — longest of the three
• Source: Baikal Mountains
• Mouth: Laptev Sea
• Basin: 2,490,000 km²
• Major Tributaries: Vitim, Olyokma, Aldan, Kirenga

These rivers are vital for transport, hydroelectric power, fisheries, and the ecosystems of the Siberian taiga and tundra.