exploding trees
Definition
A natural phenomenon where trees crack or split explosively with a loud bang due to the rapid freezing and expansion of sap and moisture within the trunk during extreme cold weather, scientifically known as frost cracking or cryoseismic booming.
Sudden bursting of tree trunks caused by internal stresses from extreme heat (e.g., wildfires), lightning, ice storms, or temperature fluctuations, often heard as a gunshot-like sound.
Examples
With the polar vortex rolling in, locals are trading tales of exploding trees that sound like a bad action movie sequel.
My neighbor swore the exploding tree in his yard was just the tree protesting the cold by auditioning for the demolition derby.
In the dead of night, an exploding tree turned our quiet suburb into an impromptu sound effects studio for a horror flick.
Garden enthusiasts now eye their saplings warily, wondering if they'll go full exploding trees when Jack Frost gets cranky.