When temperatures begin to drop, Connecticut often gets a taste of brutally cold weather topped with snow and ice. But have you been awakened in the middle of the night by an echoing boom? You aren’t the only one. And it may not have been ice-covered trees falling as many of us thought. The state is known to experience frost quakes, a natural phenomenon causing loud explosive noises that occurs only in the winter. Read on to learn more about this fascinating wintertime phenomenon in Connecticut.

After raging storms, cold fronts often move in across the state. This can bring temperatures down to the zero degree mark in many areas. When this occurs, it’s the ideal condition for the winter phenomena known as frost quakes.
Flickr/slack12
The technical term is a cryoseism but the event is more often called a frost quake or ice quake. It occurs when a sudden cracking occurs of frozen soil or rock that has been previously saturated.
Flickr/CJ Oliver
The conditions have to be just right for a frost quake to occur. The temperature must drop from just above freezing to near or below zero degrees Fahrenheit in a rapid period of time.
Flickr/Trenten Kelley

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The ground must be saturated from either a thaw or liquid precipitation prior to the cold air mass moving into the area that causes the temperature drop.
Flickr/Chris Burke
Also in most cases, the ground will only have a light snow cover of fewer than six inches. If there is more snow, the ground is insulated from the cold air and frost quakes won't occur.
Flickr/slack12
When all of these things happen, the liquid trapped under the ground will suddenly expand causing the soil and rocks to crack and move. This movement can result in loud booms that almost sound like thunder. These frost quakes usually occur at night when the temperatures are lowest.
Flickr/criana
Most frost quakes occur three to four hours after a significant drop in temperature.
Flickr/CJ Oliver
You never know what a winter in Connecticut will throw at you.

Connecticut weather is definitely fascinating. Have you ever experienced this unusual wintertime phenomenon in Connecticut? Share your frost quake experiences with us in the comments below.

While it may feel frigid where you are right now, this small town is the coldest place you can find Connecticut.

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wintertime phenomenon in Connecticut

Elisa Regulski | January 02, 2020

What are the best things to do during winter in Connecticut?

When the temperatures dip, it’s time to hit the slopes! Nothing makes a winter in Connecticut more fun than a trip to Powder Ridge Park. This area has it all: snow tubing, skiing, and snow biking! No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, you’ll find it here. Brooksvale Park is another wonderful place to visit during winter in Connecticut. Here, you can say hello to the adorable animals and taste magnificent maple syrup. For even more fun, you can go ice fishing at one of Connecticut’s beautiful lakes. Don’t know how to ice fish? The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection offers classes! Come and learn a new skill. It’s loads of fun.

What are the best winter hikes in Connecticut?

For the best winter hiking in Connecticut, visit White Memorial Foundation in Litchfield. This area is home to some pristine hiking trails, and they’re all about 2 miles long. Bundle up in your comfiest coat and explore the snowy hillsides. It’s absolutely radiant this time of year. Steep Rock Preserve is also home to some peaceful walking paths. The Northern Loop is one of the preserve’s most beloved trails. At only 1.6 miles long, it’s perfect for a quick little stroll. If you want to learn more about the best winter hiking trails in Connecticut, read our article here.

What are the best winter festivals in Connecticut?

Old Saybrook’s annual Fire and Ice festival is pure joy. It has something for everyone. Watch the dexterous ice sculptors create breathtaking works of art while you munch on food from local vendors. Bring the whole family! This event is the best way to celebrate the season.

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