When sap freezes, it expands, putting pressure on the tree’s bark. If too much pressure builds up, it can pop, or “explode.”

Local meteorologists warned that when coupled with wind chill, temperatures would feel as cold as minus 54 degrees. The temperatures are life-threatening to humans and can also cause trees to "explode," according to a meteorologist who warned of the phenomenon on X on Tuesday night.

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.

If you’ve ever planted a young tree, you know how much care they need, especially when cold weather rolls in. Winter brings freezing temperatures, harsh winds, and sudden temperature swings that can lead to bark cracking and splitting. These issues can ...

As temperatures drop in Iowa this weekend, curiosity and concern about trees exploding from the cold have grown. Here's what really happens.