The start of 2026 has brought about a series of unexpected events, including the current deep freeze affecting much of Canada and the northern United States. Temperatures have plunged to below -20 degrees Celsius, with some areas experiencing wind chills as low as -40 degrees Celsius. This extreme cold is a result of a disruption in the polar vortex, pushing Arctic air southward across the region.
Amidst preparations for the frigid conditions, a viral social media post suggested that the cold snap could be severe enough in several states to potentially cause trees to explode. However, officials have clarified that while the cold poses risks to human safety and could lead to a significant winter storm affecting nearly 30 states, trees spontaneously exploding is not a likely outcome.
The phenomenon of “exploding trees” in such bitter weather is rooted in the formation of frost cracks when temperatures drop abruptly. These cracks, more common in thin-barked trees, occur when the rapid freezing of water and sap inside the tree causes the trunk to split, resembling an explosion. While this does not harm the tree and typically heals with warmer temperatures, repeated cracking can result in lasting scars or frost ribs in the trunk.
Certain tree species, particularly hardwood trees like elm, poplar, and maple, are more susceptible to frost cracks, especially when exposed to sudden extreme cold. Non-native tree species are at higher risk, while native trees have evolved to withstand freezing temperatures. Although it is rare for trees to sustain severe damage from frost cracks, the potential for bacterial infection in deeper cracks necessitates consultation with a certified arborist.
In addition to trees, other phenomena such as frost quakes and thundersnow can occur during winter. Frost quakes, caused by rapid freezing of water in the ground, can lead to ground movement similar to earthquakes. Thundersnow, a rare occurrence where thunder accompanies snowfall in winter storms, can produce dramatic auditory effects due to the interaction of warm and cool air masses.
While the concept of exploding trees in extreme cold may sound alarming, it is a natural phenomenon resulting from the intricate dynamics of freezing temperatures and tree physiology. Understanding the science behind these events can help mitigate risks and appreciate the complexity of winter weather phenomena.