Loud booms in your area? Ice quakes may be the cause

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Have you heard loud “booms” lately? It might be an ice quake, also known as a frost quake.

After heavy rain or snow, water seeps into the ground.

When the weather turns extremely cold, this water freezes quickly and expands in the soil or bedrock.

The pressure from the expanding ice can cause the ground to crack, resulting in a loud boom or bang.

These ice quakes are harmless, but the recent winter weather and extreme cold have created ideal conditions for them.