To limit the probability of ice lens formation beneath foundations that are installed on fine-grained soils (which can retain quite a bit of water), which could lead to the excessive vertical movement of the soil, which could lead to excessive stress on foundations, which could lead to structural damage to foundations and superstructures.
This is to limit the probability of compromised structural integrity of elements supported by foundations, which could lead to:
This is to limit the probability of harm to persons.