Ballarat consulting arborist Rachael Tonkin says the high number of fallen trees in recent windy conditions should be expected after the extended dry period followed by heavy rains.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$1/
(min cost $8)
Login or signup to continue reading
A Bureau of Meteorology spokesperson confirmed the top wind gust in Ballarat on Sunday topped out at 96 km/h, more than enough to easily topple a weakened tree, Ms Tonkin said.
“We’ve had years of drought; the tree’s root ball is not functioning at its full capacity … you add to that flooding and waterlogging for such a long period of time - the soil under the root ball is essentially mush, there’s no footing for the roots to hang on,” Ms Tonkin said.
“When you add in very strong winds, it spells disaster.”
Ms Tonkin said if people had concerns, they should have the trees inspected.
