Warm Summer in Hamburg: When Thick Branches Suddenly Break
Hamburg, August 26 – City trees in Hamburg are experiencing an increased number of thick branch breakages this summer, a phenomenon attributed to persistently high temperatures. The environmental authority describes these incidents as unpredictable ‘green branch breakages,’ noting that affected branches appear healthy and fully leafed, but suffer from disturbed water balance. This issue was first reported by the “Hamburger Abendblatt.”
Phenomenon First Noticed in 2018
Most of these branch breakages occur after prolonged periods of drought or intense heat. The outer wood fibers lose their elasticity under these conditions, significantly increasing the risk of breakage. This phenomenon was first observed nationwide in 2018.
Authority Recommends Avoiding Trees During Storms
According to a spokesperson for the environmental authority, Hamburg’s city trees undergo regular maintenance and inspections. Nevertheless, the authority advises the public to avoid standing or walking under trees during storms or severe weather conditions as a precautionary measure.
Softwoods Particularly Affected
Softwood species, such as willows and poplars, are particularly susceptible to this issue. However, lindens, horse chestnuts, and even oaks have also experienced branch breakages this summer. The authority currently does not have statistics on which districts are most affected, nor has it compiled a specific count of branch breakages.
More Street Trees Planted Than Felled in Hamburg
Despite the challenges posed by the warm summer, Hamburg’s environmental authority reported a positive balance in its street tree inventory. According to the city’s street tree balance, Hamburg recorded a net increase of 352 street trees, indicating that more trees were planted than felled.
This topic was broadcast on NDR 90.3 | NDR 90.3 Aktuell | August 26, 2026 | 06:00 AM.
Source: https://www.ndr.de/nachrichten/hamburg/warmer-sommer-in-hamburg-wenn-dicke-aeste-ploetzlich-brechen,astbruch-102.html
