Winter storm could be fourth major weather event in past year to damage trees in Colorado Springs

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- The season's first winter storm will bring not only cold temperatures and snow, but a risk of further damage to trees.

With two weeks of summer remaining, most trees have yet to drop their leaves -- and if the snow is wet and heavy, it could break branches and limbs as well as fall onto power lines and vehicles.

The situation could create yet another big mess and cleanup effort in the city. Many trees already have been damaged or killed by winter weather last fall, this spring and by a hailstorm last month.

"I'd guess that 10% to 20% of the city's trees have been killed or damaged," said Dennis Will, a city forester. "Native trees, such as pines, will be fine. They're made for sudden weather changes. The non-native trees that people have planted will be more of an issue."

A local tree-trimming worker said for people who have large trees on their property, keeping them properly trimmed is the best way to protect them from harsh weather.

"I feel like people are doing that," he said. "We're backed up six or seven weeks with work orders. No one's saying they want their trees trimmed because of the storm, but we'll be busy after the storm if a lot of tree branches and limbs come down."

Will also said the storm could affect trees weakened by the current drought.

"I don't think we'll have much in the way of fall colors for aspen," he said. "I think most of those leaves will turn black and we won't see the yellow we normally do."

Sharon Spencer, of Spencer's Lawn & Garden, said homeowners can take steps top protect smaller, younger trees from winter storms.

"Use a lightweight sheet or blanket to cover the foliage," she said. "Don't use a plastic or a tarp. Shake off any snow that accumulates on it. Be aware that you may see buds on your branches bloom again after you trim away any dead branches. We saw that happen after the hailstorm last month. That could be a problem because later they may freeze and do some damage."