November 19, 2024 Storm Impact
Understanding what happened and what we learned
On November 19, 2024, a powerful windstorm swept through Lake Connor Park, resulting in 163 documented incidents of tree-related damage. While this event caused significant property damage, it also validated the importance of our proactive hazard tree management program.
Trees Involved in Storm Damage
Douglas-fir trees accounted for the majority of storm damage incidents
Types of Damage Documented
RV Damage
Multiple recreational vehicles were crushed or significantly damaged by falling trees. Incidents occurred across multiple loops including sites 1-082, 1-090, 1-113, 1-325, 1-347, and others.
Structure Damage
Sheds, decks, and outbuildings bore significant damage. Some structures were completely crushed while others sustained roof damage or were knocked off foundations.
Combination Damage
Many sites experienced multiple types of damage – for example, site 1-348 had an RV damaged while the shed and deck fell into a ravine from a single Douglas-fir failure.
Sample Storm Incidents
| Site | Tree | Damage Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1-057 | Douglas-fir | Crushed shed roof, minor RV damage |
| 1-082 | Douglas-fir | Crushed RV |
| 1-109 | Douglas-fir | Crushed shed – buried under multiple stems |
| 1-193 | Douglas-fir | Crushed deck, damaged awning |
| 1-348 | Douglas-fir | RV damaged. Shed and deck fell into ravine |
| C-031 | Alder | Damaged RV |
What This Storm Taught Us
1. Program Validation
Trees that had been identified and treated through our program posed significantly less risk during the storm.
2. Douglas-fir Focus
While Hemlock dominates our hazard inventory, this storm highlighted that large Douglas-firs require enhanced monitoring.
3. Continued Investment
The cost of proactive tree management is far less than storm damage recovery. This validates our annual budget allocation.
Moving Forward
Following the November 2024 storm, we’ve enhanced our monitoring protocols and are conducting additional assessments of large Douglas-fir trees throughout the park. Our commitment to member safety and forest stewardship remains stronger than ever.
We extend our gratitude to all volunteers and contractors who assisted with storm cleanup and to our members for their patience during the recovery period.