LOS FELIZ—A large tree collapsed onto two vehicles and their occupants on Sunday, September 6, around 4 p.m. One of the occupants was taken to the hospital and is reported to be in fair condition. Their vehicle sustained heavy damage to the hood and windshield. The incident occurred at the intersection of Vermont Avenue and Melbourne Avenue near the Mac Repair Clinic. Video of the incident was published on Facebook.
Experts believe the tree collapsed due to wet, stormy weather caused by the remnants of Hurricane Marie. The rainfall likely saturated the soil, destabilizing the tree’s roots and causing it to give way. The same storm system caused flooding and slick road conditions that led to crashes across Los Angeles.
According to public records, 311 LA City service requests have been made for tree trimming in the Los Feliz region. It remains unclear whether the incident could have been prevented. Cleanup crews have been called to clear the debris from the roadway.
Residents in areas with mature trees are urged to stay alert during storms and report any leaning, cracked, or unstable trees to 311 as soon as possible. If driving in heavy rain, avoid parking or lingering under large trees and give yourself extra distance from tree lines when conditions are wet.
By Milan Manesh