
Michigan Winters Bring Frost Quakes—Here’s Everything You Need To Know
Michigan winters hit differently as a transplant to the Mitten State.
While I have heard of earthquakes, this discovery blew my mind.
Have you heard of or experienced frostquakes?
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Frost Quakes
For those like me, a frostquake may be a new concept for you.
A frostquake is when underground land moves because of the expansion of frozen water in the soil. When the water in the soil freezes and expands, it causes the ground to shake like an earthquake.
While they are rare, they typically happen in arctic areas or places that experience below-freezing temperatures. For the most part, frostquakes happen between 11:00 PM and 3:00 PM.
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Are Frost Quakes Dangerous?
Typically, the frost quakes are not dangerous since the land does not move enough to cause issues with any buildings or roads.
When a frostquake happens, you will not see but you will most likely hear cracking sounds due to the underground soil moving.
However, in rare cases, the ground's top layer can crack open, which can cause damage depending on the area.
Has Frost Quakes Happened In Michigan?
The answer is yes, frost quakes have happened in Michigan. It was not that long ago that Michigan was hit with a frostquake.
On December 13th, 2024, Berrien County residents heard a loud boom that ended up being a frostquake.
Enjoyer shared that Michigan is one of the few states that have reported experiencing a frostquake.
"Unlike earthquakes, which can be felt for miles around, frost quakes are concentrated. Only a handful of states have ever reported them: Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, and Indiana in the Midwest; Tennessee down South; New York and the New England states out East; and Alaska."
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Gallery Credit: George McIntyre
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