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January 14.2026

2 Minutes Read

Why Arborists Should Prepare for Heavy Snow and High Winds Now

Special Weather Statement issued January 14 at 11:09AM EST by NWS Indianapolis IN

Heavy Snow Warning: What Arborists Need to Know

On January 14 at 11:09 AM EST, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Special Weather Statement alerting residents of Indiana about a significant weather event. An area of heavy snow has developed along a path from Walton to Lafayette, impacting areas including West Lafayette, Delphi, and Purdue University. This weather front is moving southeast at 25 mph and is expected to bring gusty winds exceeding 40 mph, leading to hazardous conditions.

Risks to Trees and Plant Health

For arborists, heavy snow combined with strong winds poses specific threats to trees and plants. Accumulated snow can weigh heavily on branches, leading to breakage. Additionally, the mix of wind and wet snow can uproot smaller trees, jeopardizing their health and structural integrity. Arborists should be vigilant and inspect the trees under their care, especially those already weakened by previous weather conditions.

Preparing for Rapid Weather Changes

The NWS warns that winter weather can create rapidly deteriorating conditions. Arborists and tree care professionals need to prepare for these conditions as they can affect scheduling and safety on job sites. Prioritizing safety should be paramount, and arborists are advised to postpone any tree work if risky conditions arise. Keeping equipment ready for snow-induced tasks, like clearing fallen branches, is also crucial.

Advice for Clients

As an arborist, communicating with clients about potential risks to their trees during this storm is key. Advise them regarding proper care, such as removing snow from branches where it's safe to do so, and recommending professional tree assessments after the storm passes.

In summary, as heavy snow blankets Indiana, the implications for trees and the arboriculture community are significant. With strong winds expected alongside the snowfall, understanding the risks is essential for the health of the trees we care for.

Storm Shield

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01.14.2026

Winter Weather Advisory: Essential Insights for Arborists

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01.14.2026

Winter Weather Advisory for Indiana: What Arborists Need to Know

Update Winter Weather Advisory: What You Need To Know As January 14 rolls in, the National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for parts of northwest Indiana, warning of hazardous travel conditions due to wind-driven snow in the area. Residents can expect total snow accumulations of 1 to 4 inches, particularly along and east of I-65, with winds gusting as high as 50 mph near Lake Michigan. The Hazardous conditions are set to affect Lake County, Indiana, until 3 PM CST. Impact on Arborists and Tree Care For arborists, this weather presents unique challenges. Wind gusts can easily bring down tree branches, creating potential hazards for both workers and nearby structures. It's crucial for tree care professionals to assess local trees for structural integrity before venturing into the field. The combination of strong winds and wet, heavy snow could lead to significant tree damage, making it a critical time for tree assessments and timely interventions. Travel Precautions: Safety First Travelers in the advisory area should exercise caution. Roads will likely be slippery and visibility compromised due to blowing snow. It's recommended to stay updated with local road conditions, available through Indiana's road conditions website. Arborists should plan their work schedules accordingly, perhaps delaying travel until conditions improve. Future Weather Predictions Looking ahead, forecasts indicate that snow squalls and additional weather advisories may follow as the winter season progresses. The presence of lake-effect snow could further complicate conditions, leading to higher accumulations in localized areas. Arborists should stay vigilant as ongoing weather changes may impact their operations for days to come. Preparedness is key during such weather conditions; thus, having contingency plans for both travel and tree care operations can reduce risks. Be proactive in monitoring forecast updates to protect yourself, your team, and the natural environment.

01.14.2026

Winter Weather Alert: What Arborists Need to Know About Snow Impacts

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Why Arborists Should Prepare for Heavy Snow and High Winds Now

Heavy Snow Warning: What Arborists Need to Know

Risks to Trees and Plant Health

Preparing for Rapid Weather Changes

Advice for Clients

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