Highland landowners are being urged to check for damaged trees, weakened branches and blocked drains following Storm Boelo, as council teams continue clearing debris from roads across the region.
The Highland Council issued the appeal on Monday 26 October after strong winds brought down trees and created dangerous conditions on roads throughout the Highlands.
Council workers have been dealing with fallen trees and branches, but the scale of the damage has prompted officials to ask private landowners to inspect areas of their property bordering public roads.
Particular concern surrounds trees that may still be standing but have suffered damage during the storm, leaving branches weakened and at risk of falling.
While the worst of the weather may have passed, damaged trees can remain dangerous long afterwards, especially if further strong winds arrive before they have been inspected.
Landowners are also being asked to check drainage systems on their properties to ensure that water is not being discharged onto public roads because of blockages.
Leaves, branches and other storm debris can obstruct drains and watercourses, potentially allowing water to accumulate on roads and create additional hazards for motorists.
The council says both damaged vegetation and drainage problems can obstruct vehicles and pedestrians, making it important that potential dangers are identified.
MacKenzie Sutherland, Highland Council’s Strategic Lead for Operations, said:
“Damaged trees/vegetation and blocked drainage can cause potential hazards to road users by obstructing the passage of vehicles and pedestrians.
“The Council is particularly concerned where weakened or damaged branches could subsequently fall on vehicles or pedestrians.
“Our teams have been working incredibly hard to try to keep the Council’s roads clear.”
The appeal follows a demanding weekend for the teams responsible for maintaining Highland roads, with Storm Boelo bringing severe winds and widespread disruption.
Fallen trees have been among the most immediate problems, forcing council operatives to respond to obstructions and clear routes where conditions allowed.
However, the council is concerned that further damage may not yet have been identified, particularly on privately owned land adjacent to the road network.
Forestry and Land Scotland has also issued a warning about the dangers of attempting to cut up trees brought down by strong winds.
Members of the public are being advised to leave such work to trained professionals rather than attempting to remove fallen timber themselves.
Windblown trees can be particularly hazardous because trunks and branches may remain under considerable tension, creating the risk of sudden movement when cutting begins.
The message to landowners is therefore to inspect their property where it is safe to do so and seek appropriate professional assistance if damaged trees require attention.
The council has provided contact numbers for anyone needing advice or guidance about trees and drainage near public roads.
Landowners can contact Highland Council’s Service Centre on 01349 886601 during office hours or 01349 886690 outside normal working hours.
With further unsettled weather possible, identifying damage now could help prevent additional disruption and keep Highland roads safer for everyone who uses them.
