Frost Quakes in Michigan: What’s Behind the Loud Booms?

After the exploding trees stories last week, I’m sure by now you’re probably thinking we’re just making this stuff up.

First, trees are popping like fireworks, and now people are hearing loud booms and feeling the ground shake. Welcome to winter in Michigan. And pretty much every neighborhood Facebook page.

If you heard a loud boom or felt the ground shake recently, no, it wasn't an earthquake. What you may have experienced is something called a frost quake. Yeah, it sounds way more dramatic than it actually is.

See Also: Experts Warn Not to Flip Up Windshield Wipers During MI Winters

What Is a Frost Quake?

Frost quakes, also known as cryoseisms, happen when temperatures drop fast and the ground freezes suddenly. Water just below the surface freezes, expands, and cracks the soil or rock around it. That cracking can sound like a gunshot, an explosion, or even feel like a quick jolt under your feet.

According to Fox 2, frost quakes usually happen within 12 to 48 hours after a sharp temperature drop. We’ve been in a deep freeze for days now, so if you heard a loud boom earlier in the cold snap, this might explain it.

Here’s the weird part. Snow can actually stop frost quakes from happening. A decent snow cover insulates the ground, so bare ground plus bitter cold is the perfect setup.

Can Frost Quakes Cause Damage?

As far as damage goes, it’s rare.

Look, if you hear a loud boom during a deep freeze, it’s probably just winter doing winter things. There’s no need to run to Facebook and post, “Did anyone else hear that?”