On Wednesday, January 21, the lowest temperature was -46 degrees Fahrenheit in the Minnesota towns of International Falls and Babbitt. These frigid temperatures in Minnesota are causing trees to “explode”. Schools across the state closed on Friday, and some had a late start on Monday, January 26th, because of the dangerous weather.

································································································································································

Social media posts about the extreme cold and this winter phenomenon have gone viral. Although these posts are getting lots of attention, they are not entirely accurate. While it would be interesting, trees are not actually exploding. Instead temperatures well below zero cause the sap to freeze and expand, creating a great amount of pressure that splits the tree’s bark with a loud gun-shot sounding pop. This process is known as frost cracking.

Posts about exploding trees are misleading. It can be difficult to tell what content is real and what has been edited or created using online tools. Many videos and images posted lack credible sources and information, which can cause confusion and spreading of misinformation about this winter phenomenon.  

·······························································································································

Frigid Temperatures

Beyond frost cracking, the severe cold significantly affected daily life across Minnesota. Schools closed and heaters were turned up. Residents were encouraged to stay indoors and check on vulnerable neighbors. Local officials warned that frostbite can occur in just minutes when temperatures were that low, making exposure to the cold dangerous. 

As temperatures slowly begin to rise and light snowfall returns, forecasters remind Minnesotans to stay alert as weather is unpredictable. With social media continuing to shape how people receive news, experts urge the public to stay connected with reliable information, especially during extreme weather events.