Wichita, KS – Residents across central and eastern Kansas, including Wichita, Topeka, and surrounding communities, may hear sudden loud booms during overnight hours as a sharp cold snap follows recent rainfall. State geologists and meteorologists say the sounds are likely frost quakes, a rare winter phenomenon that can shake homes and startle residents.
What is causing the loud booms?
According to the Kansas Geological Survey, the noises are caused by frost quakes, also known scientifically as cryoseisms. These occur when water from rain or melting snow seeps into the ground and then freezes rapidly.
As the water turns to ice, it expands and creates intense pressure beneath the surface. When that pressure becomes too great, the frozen ground fractures suddenly, releasing energy in a sharp, explosive sound that can resemble thunder or even a small earthquake.
“Frost quakes are not earthquakes and do not involve movement along fault lines,” geologists explain. “They are shallow ground cracks caused by rapid freezing.”
Why Kansas is at higher risk this week
Meteorologists say weather conditions across central and eastern Kansas are ideal for frost quakes over the coming days…