Loud Booms and Light Shaking Caused by Frost Quakes

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Meteorologists say that loud booming noises and light shaking experienced during bitterly cold weather are caused by a phenomenon known as frost quakes or cryoseisms. This occurs when rain or melted snow in the ground quickly freezes, expanding as it solidifies when temperatures rapidly fall below freezing. The expanding ice causes pressure to build around the surrounding soil, leading to cracking and booming sounds.

Why it matters

Frost quakes can be startling, especially when they happen at night, but meteorologists say they are generally harmless. Understanding the science behind this cold weather phenomenon can help alleviate concerns among residents who experience these loud booms and light shaking.

The details

As the ice expands, pressure builds around the surrounding soil, causing it to crack and make booming sounds and light shaking. Meteorologist Evan Webb of the National Weather Service in Louisville, Kentucky, said the office has received reports of 'loud booms' associated with cryoseisms during bitter cold weather. Webb noted that frost quakes are 'relatively rare' in Kentucky, as the state doesn't get cold enough very often to have the saturated soil needed for this phenomenon to occur.

• Frost quakes typically occur when temperatures rapidly fall below freezing.