Can trees explode in Minnesota? Here's what really happens

Tree sap is mostly water with sugars and minerals, and like many liquids, it expands when it freezes. Gradual freezes usually don’t harm trees — even if it gradually cools to subzero — but plunging temperature swings cause uneven freezing and internal pressure. This stress can crack the bark and wood, producing what sounds like a loud pop.

OMG! People are saying it's so cold trees will explode. That viral claim may be overblown

We're not even one month into 2026, and with everything that's happening, now we have to deal with exploding trees? No, not entirely. But a sudden deep freeze is going to send temperatures plummeting in much of Canada and the U.

Can Trees Explode From Cold? Viral 'Exploding Trees' Warning Explained As Winter Storm Sweeps US

Forecasters warn an extreme winter storm could trigger rare “exploding trees” across the Upper Midwest as temperatures plunge below zero, causing sap inside trees to freeze and crack bark. The storm is expected to bring widespread snow,
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Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources debunks viral claims over exploding trees

“I have never seen a tree explode in 24 years."
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