A major winter storm is set to impact nearly every state in the United States east of the Rocky Mountains, prompting residents to prepare for extreme cold, ice, and heavy snowfall. In the midst of these preparations, meteorologist Max Schuster, known for his engaging social media presence as “Max Velocity,” has raised awareness about a unique hazard: the risk of trees “exploding” due to the frigid temperatures.
On January 21, 2026, Schuster shared a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, indicating an area of heightened “exploding tree risk” across regions including the Dakotas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and northern Michigan. He warned that temperatures could plunge as low as 20 degrees below zero Fahrenheit, leading to conditions ripe for tree damage.
“Exploding trees are possible in the Midwest and Northern Plains on Friday and Saturday,” Schuster stated, highlighting the severity of the impending cold snap. While this claim might sound sensational, it is grounded in scientific observations regarding how rapid temperature drops can affect trees.
Understanding Tree Damage Risks
The phenomenon referenced by Schuster is linked to what are known as “frost cracks.” According to Bill McNee, a forest health specialist with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, rapid temperature decreases can cause moisture and sap within trees to freeze quickly. This sudden change can generate significant internal pressure, leading to audible cracks that may resemble explosive sounds.
“It’s going to get cold enough that this sap may actually finally freeze. And when it does that, like ice cubes in your freezer, they expand very quickly,” McNee explained in an interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. The pressure created by this expansion can result in noticeable cracking in the tree’s structure, leading to fallen branches and loud noises reminiscent of gunshots.
While the potential for trees to sustain damage does exist, McNee emphasizes that occurrences of actual tree explosions are exceedingly rare. “I’ve never seen the damage of it,” he added, noting that while trees can produce frost cracks, it is uncommon for the pressure to build up to the point of causing an explosion.
Public Awareness and Safety Measures
As the winter storm approaches, experts advise residents in the affected regions to be aware of their surroundings, particularly in areas with dense tree coverage. Falling branches due to frost cracks can pose a risk to individuals and property alike.
Weather forecasts indicate that conditions will be particularly treacherous, with heavy snowfall combined with freezing temperatures. Residents are encouraged to secure outdoor items and be cautious of their proximity to trees, especially during periods of intense cold.
As communities brace for the severe winter weather, the information shared by meteorologists like Schuster and specialists like McNee serves as an important reminder of the various dangers posed by sudden temperature drops. Being informed and prepared can help mitigate potential risks associated with this winter storm.
