February 5,2014
Arne Dedert/AFP/Getty Images
Scientists say they experienced a rare natural phenomenon known as a "frost quake," which happens when moisture in the ground suddenly freezes.
If conditions are just right, the soil or bedrock cracks like a brittle frozen pipe.
(MORE: Rare 'Frost Quake' Rattles Toronto and Across Canada)
The season has provided ripe conditions for frost quakes. Temperatures have been frigid, but occasional warm-ups have allowed for thawing. And the temperature swings have sometimes been abrupt.
That was the case Sunday in Missouri, where temperatures in the 40s on Saturday gave way to single-digit readings by Sunday night.
Frost quakes were also reported last month in Canada and in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin.
MORE: Photos from Winter Storm Nika
People walk through snow and slush along
Broadway near Lincoln Center Feb. 5, 2014 in New York after an overnight
storm dropped more snow in the area. (Stan Honda/Getty Images)
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