Flooding can cause trees to become prone to what risk?

When trees are subjected to flooding, particularly for prolonged periods, their root systems can become waterlogged and suffer from insufficient oxygen, leading to conditions such as root rot. This weakened root structure ultimately makes the trees less stable and increases the risk of toppling.

In addition, excessive water saturation can lead to soil erosion and reduced soil stability, which further compounds the risk of trees falling over. Because the roots are crucial for anchoring the tree in the soil, their degradation dramatically affects the tree's overall stability, making toppling a significant risk following flooding events. This understanding underscores the importance of monitoring and managing tree health in flood-prone areas.