Tree Failure Advisory

Winter storms with heavy, wet snow at low elevations are again in the forecast, and many trees in sheltered areas are still snow loaded from the last event. Strong storms always cause some tree failures, sometimes with property damage or tragic injuries. Trees adjacent to developments such as residences, campgrounds, lodging, offices, parking lots, and some roads are surveyed for defects that may make them likely to fail and injure people or damage property. Yosemite Forestry Crews prune or remove identified high priority tree hazards.

Some trees without any visible defects fail during storms. To avoid injury or damage to your property, be aware of your surroundings and park in open areas when storms are blowing or forecast. When driving under snow loaded trees, be prepared for releases dropping "snow bombs" across your windshield, be prepared to stop just around that next corner for a tree across traffic lanes, and especially be prepared to avoid workers responding to clear winter hazards. Stay away from tree failures involving power lines, even if you know the lights went off! Wait for a qualified electrician to notify you that lines have been safed.