Tree falls in Van Nuys knocking down power lines after heavy rain

Tree Falls in Van Nuys, Causing Safety Concerns

VAN NUYS, LOS ANGELES (KABC) — A massive tree fell in a Van Nuys neighborhood overnight. It took down power lines and put residents on edge.

Neighbors told Eyewitness News they heard a loud crash and saw a bright flash when the tree fell on Forbes Avenue around 4 a.m. Monday.

“A lot of these are really overgrown… especially when it gets really windy and stormy like it is right now, it can pose a safety hazard,” said Britney Smith.

Fortunately, nobody was hurt. However, many aging trees and the rain-soaked soil worry people in the neighborhood.

“I’m just very concerned… because this is not the only tree that has been left uprooted that could potentially fall,” said Wendy Lozano.

Just over a month ago, one person was killed after a tree fell in Winnetka following a powerful storm.

“We walk up and down the street, we drive up and down the street. We shouldn’t fear that a tree is going to fall and potentially lose our lives,” Lozano added.

A large tree also fell and crushed several vehicles in Reseda over the weekend as Southern California continues to experience heavy rain.

Just this last weekend, there was a close call in Reseda when a pine tree fell and crushed two cars.

Meanwhile, another safety hazard is emerging after the recent rain: potholes.

“We heard this huge thump… and both of my tires on the passenger side just blew out,” said James Estreba.

A giant pothole on La Brea Avenue has caused major problems for drivers. More than a dozen cars pulled over with popped tires.

The new year has begun much like the last one ended: Angelenos are weary of the wet weather and its consequences.

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