Arborist warns Las Vegas Valley residents to check for ‘zombie trees’

LAS VEGAS ( FOX5 ) — High winds in the valley can cause damage, not only to blowing trash cans and Halloween decorations.

Local arborists say you should watch out for “zombie” trees in your yard. A “zombie tree” is a tree that appears alive but is actually dead or majorly compromised inside, often due to past storm damage. These trees can pose serious risks of falling or downed branches if left unchecked.

The trees can be risky around your home and even at public places like a park.

“They can be hazardous. Toppling over, not so much, but you can lose large limbs. They can do damage to homes,” said Ken Busse, arborist for Davey Tree. “If they’re in a heavily populated area or somewhere pedestrians are constantly walking, they could break off at a moment’s notice without any warning.”