Overview
- A potent polar vortex winter storm is forecast to deliver dangerous subzero temperatures, snow and ice across large parts of the United States, with the Upper Midwest and Northern Plains at particular risk.
- A viral post from meteorology account Max Velocity warned that 'exploding trees' are possible Friday and Saturday in the Midwest and Northern Plains as temperatures near 20 degrees below zero.
- Scientists explain that sap can freeze and expand in intense cold, causing bark to shrink and split with a sharp bang, a process most likely during clear, calm nights with rapid temperature drops and in younger or thinner‑barked species.
- The phenomenon is a rupture rather than a violent blast and is considered uncommon, though falling limbs can damage homes, vehicles and power lines; forecasters note frost quakes are a more frequent source of cold‑weather booms.
- The National Weather Service urges monitoring updated forecasts, limiting time outdoors, preparing for outages, keeping vehicles fueled for emergencies and using generators safely.