Can Trees Really Pop Like Popcorn in Freezing Weather?

In the United States, a polar vortex is bringing extreme cold. People are talking about trees exploding. But can trees really explode?

Frost Cracks in Trees

Trees can crack in extreme cold. This is called a frost crack. The thick sap inside trees freezes at a lower temperature than water. It stays liquid even when it's freezing outside. This is called supercooling.

When it gets too cold, the sap turns solid and expands. This can cause long cracks in the tree. Branches can fall off, and people hear a loud bang.

Different Rates of Contraction

Another way frost cracks happen is when the outside of the tree gets much colder than the inside. This causes the tree's bark to shrink. The inside and outside of the tree contract at different rates. This can also cause a loud bang.

Safety Concerns

But don't worry, trees don't usually explode. The cracks often become part of the tree. However, if a tree has a severe crack, it could be dangerous. The Department of Natural Resources suggests talking to an arborist if you see a big crack. The tree could fall and cause harm.

Conclusion

So, while the idea of exploding trees is scary, it's not as dangerous as it sounds. Just be careful and keep an eye on your trees during extreme cold.