Many people online have been speculating about trees suddenly “exploding,” especially recently, as the United States faced a massive winter storm. Verdict:FalseWhat people often describe as “exploding trees” is actually a loud popping or cracking sound, which many mistake for an explosion. Here’s how it works: During a sudden cold snap, the sap and water inside a tree’s trunk freeze and expand. If you’re worried about exploding trees while travelling to colder countries, there’s no need to panic. And no, if you stay in a wooden house in cold weather, it will not “explode.” There’s no living sap or water left in the construction lumber to expand and cause such a crack.

Source: The Star February 09, 2026 04:31 UTC