Atlantic Beach Tree Safety Warning After Heavy Rains

Atlantic Beach residents should inspect their properties for unstable trees and avoid parking under large branches following consecutive days of heavy rainfall, the city warned.

Saturated soil weakens tree root systems, making even healthy-looking mature oaks susceptible to sudden collapse. The advisory particularly affects trees near beaches and along Mayport Road. Motorists should exercise caution on tree-lined streets like Seminole Road, where waterlogged limbs may sag into roadways.

Property owners should look for warning signs including soil heaving or cracking near the base, sudden leaning, exposed roots, and cracked canopy limbs. Residents visiting parks and wooded trails should use caution during and after rain.

If a fallen tree or branch brings down power lines, stay at least 35 feet away and call 911. Treat all downed lines as live and dangerous.

Call 911 for emergencies such as trees blocking major roadways or damaging public infrastructure. Report non-emergency issues on public property to Public Works at (904) 247-5834 or [email protected]. Property owners are responsible for trees on private land and should consult a certified arborist.