Frost quakes: the science behind them

news image
Special Stories
14 Jan 2024 6:10 PM

Frost quakes? Sounds like a basis of a bad sci-fi movie. Cryoseism is highly localized rumblings caused by the fast onset of cold air!

This Arctic Outbreak is bringing a couple of different headaches, including SNOW IN THE SOUTHEAST but another symptom of the brutal cold could be some frost quakes.

Basically, the groundwater beneath the surface freezes due to the incursion of cold air rushing in. That ice will expand in size, putting pressure on the soil above it. When that soil inevitably shifts around, that is what you're feeling.

What do you need to occur to open the possibility of frost quakes?

  • Temperatures to plummet close to zero

  • Little to no snowfall on the ground

Don't worry, these are often weak in intensity, and highly localized to areas on the surface. In fact, they can go unnoticed by the USGS! Don't be surprised if some places around the Midwest report some shaking and loud noises in the next few days.

All Weather News
More
North Side of Houston Struck by Tornado Monday

North Side of Houston Struck by Tornado Monday

Areas in southeast Houston quickly took cover

25 Nov 2025 3:24 PM
One More Day of Severe Weather in the South

One More Day of Severe Weather in the South

Strong to severe storms continue their march

25 Nov 2025 3:10 PM
Snowy, Windy System Blows Through Upper Midwest

Snowy, Windy System Blows Through Upper Midwest

The Upper Midwest has been fairly quiet recen

25 Nov 2025 2:15 PM
Moisture and Lake Effect Snow for the Northeast

Moisture and Lake Effect Snow for the Northeast

A low-pressure system currently moving throug

25 Nov 2025 1:00 PM
A Record Breaking Thanksgiving Travel Week Expected

A Record Breaking Thanksgiving Travel Week Expected

It is that time of year again—when millions o

25 Nov 2025 2:40 AM
Hurricane Melissa Produces Strongest Gust Recorded in a Hurricane

Hurricane Melissa Produces Strongest Gust Recorded in a Hurricane

Hurricane Melissa was a devastating category

23 Nov 2025 3:25 PM
Four Corners Expecting More Flooding Rain, Mountain Snow

Four Corners Expecting More Flooding Rain, Mountain Snow

A cut-off low will be moving out of southern

23 Nov 2025 3:20 AM