Southern Storms: A Tale of Loss and Lessons

The South is still grappling with the aftermath of a recent storm that brought snow, ice, and widespread destruction. The storm claimed lives and left thousands dealing with the consequences. Homes and businesses were damaged, and many residents endured power outages for over a week.

The Trees: A Silent Victim

The most visible damage was to the trees. The weight of the ice proved too much for many, causing branches to snap and entire trees to fall. This devastation was not confined to any one area—wealthy neighborhoods, rural regions, and city parks all bore the brunt. Trees that had stood for decades succumbed to the storm's fury. The cleanup will take months, and it may take a generation to replace the lost or severely damaged trees.

A Growing Problem

This storm highlights a significant issue: the trees that provide shade and coolness during heatwaves can become hazardous when ice accumulates. In northeastern Louisiana, the timber industry, already struggling from a 2022 freeze and record heat, has suffered another blow as pines were heavily impacted.

A Love for Trees

Southerners have a deep affection for their trees—live oaks, pines, and Southern magnolias are integral to their landscape and culture. In Nashville, over 2,000 trees were lost in Warner Parks. The city zoo lost a 150-year-old hackberry tree, and at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, a century-old red oak tree is splitting apart.

In Oxford, Mississippi, two trees that stood during William Faulkner's time can no longer be saved. Centuries-old trees in the city center had to be removed due to ice damage. City officials penned a eulogy for the trees, acknowledging their role as more than just trees—they were part of the community's life.

Utility Under Fire

The storm also brought scrutiny to the local public utility, which took nearly two weeks to restore power to all customers. Critics argue that the utility did not trim trees sufficiently in recent years. Senator Marsha Blackburn and Cameron Sexton, the Republican speaker of the state House of Representatives, have criticized the utility's focus on preserving the tree canopy.

The utility has indicated it will consider changes, including more aggressive tree trimming. By spring, new trees will be planted across the region. However, the gaps in the canopy will likely take decades to fill.

A Musician's Lament

Eric Brace, a musician in East Nashville, lost branches from his American elm tree. He reflected, "You don't know what you've got till it's gone."