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January 14.2026

2 Minutes Read

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

Special Weather Statement issued January 14 at 11:15AM EST by NWS Northern Indiana

Understanding the Impact of Winter Weather on Trees

As winter progresses, arborists must stay vigilant—particularly given the current weather forecast from NWS Northern Indiana. A significant weather event is set to unfold with a transition from rain to snow across northeast Indiana, south central Lower Michigan, and northwest Indiana. Accumulations of half an inch to an inch are expected, along with gusty northwest winds reaching 30 to 35 mph.

This weather pattern is more than just a scenario for cautious driving; it poses several risks to local trees and plants. Wet, heavy snow can cling to branches, leading to potential breakage. Conditions like these demand that arborists evaluate tree health and take preemptive measures to protect urban forestry assets.

What Arborists Should Watch For

Rapidly changing weather conditions can drastically alter the stress levels on trees. Lower temperatures expected this afternoon could freeze moisture on branches, causing increased brittleness. As temperatures dip into the mid-20s, the weight of the snow coupled with gusty winds could lead to broken limbs—especially in already-stressed or diseased trees.

Action Steps for Arborists

Now is the time for arborists to prepare. Identify vulnerable trees in your care, particularly those showing signs of previous damage. Securing loose branches and assessing overall tree stability should be a priority in these snowy conditions. Additionally, informing your clients about potential risks and what to expect with the inclement weather can help manage their expectations.

Conclusion: Stay Prepared

As professionals in tree care, your proactive measures in response to cold weather events can make a substantial difference in preserving the health of urban canopies. Stay informed, act quickly, and help protect our vital green resources during this snowy period.

Storm Shield

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01.14.2026

Winter Weather Advisory: Essential Insights for Arborists

Update A Winter Weather Advisory: What Arborists Need to Know The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Porter County, Indiana, effective from January 14 at 10:09 AM CST until January 15 at 9:00 AM CST. Predicted temperatures are expected to drop significantly, leading to hazardous travel conditions as wind-blown lake effect snow begins to accumulate. Understanding Lake Effect Snow and Its Impacts Lake effect snow is caused by cold, air passing over the relatively warmer waters of Lake Michigan. This phenomenon can lead to significant snowfall in localized areas and create challenging travel conditions, particularly for those involved in arborist work. With total snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches expected in Porter County, arborists should prepare for slippery roads and reduced visibility. High Winds and Tree Safety Precautions Winds gusting up to 50 mph may lead to downed tree branches and additional hazards. Arborists must be vigilant; not only should they avoid working in high winds, but they should also assess the stability of trees in their care. High winds exacerbate the risk of falling branches, particularly on roads or populated areas. How Lake Effect Snow Affects Daily Operations The conditions predicted over the next 24 hours could make it challenging for arborists to conduct regular operations. Road conditions are likely to be slick and hazardous, especially on bridges and overpasses. Arborists are encouraged to alter travel plans and take this advisory seriously to ensure safety in their daily work. Preparing for Rapid Weather Changes In the case of lake effect snow, weather can change swiftly, potentially transitioning from heavy snow to clear skies just a few miles apart. Arborists should stay informed about real-time weather updates and be prepared for sudden changes that may impact their schedules. Having flexible work plans and prioritizing safety are essential steps during such advisories. Final Thoughts: Safety First! In light of the Winter Weather Advisory, arborists should prioritize safety over productivity. Keep equipment well-maintained, stay updated with weather forecasts, and consider rescheduling non-urgent tasks until conditions improve. Remember: safety always comes first, especially during inclement weather.

01.14.2026

Why Arborists Should Prepare for Heavy Snow and High Winds Now

Update 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.

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.

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

Understanding the Impact of Winter Weather on Trees

What Arborists Should Watch For

Action Steps for Arborists

Conclusion: Stay Prepared

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