A 9 News Australia reporter was filmed shaking heavy, wet snow off tree branches following a storm in Colorado [1].

This effort to clear the branches is a preventative measure to stop heavy snow loads from snapping limbs or toppling trees. Wet snow is heavier than dry powder, which increases the risk of structural failure for local vegetation during unexpected spring weather events [2].

The activity took place in May 2024, when a storm system moved through the U.S. state [1]. Meteorological reports said that the storm was expected to drop several inches of snow across the region [2].

While some reports have varied regarding the specific location and timing of similar weather events across the U.S., the footage from 9 News Australia confirms the activity occurred in Colorado during the month of May [1]. The reporter focused on removing the accumulated weight from the branches to mitigate the damage caused by the precipitation [1].

Experts said that shaking snow off trees is a common method to protect prized landscaping, or critical infrastructure, from falling debris. The weight of wet snow can create immense pressure on the crown of a tree, leading to permanent deformation or total collapse [2].

“A 9 News Australia reporter was filmed shaking heavy, wet snow off tree branches”

This incident highlights the vulnerability of vegetation to 'heavy wet snow,' which poses a greater risk of mechanical failure than lighter snowfall. When such storms occur late in the season, such as in May, the contrast between spring growth and winter precipitation can exacerbate the risk of limb breakage.