Support Us Button Widget

Tips for dealing with branches broken by the winter storm

First thing’s first, stay away from downed power lines.

A couple and a dog standing next to a downed branch on the street.

Stay away from branches near downed power lines, as they may be energized.

So the winter storm knocked some branches down on your property. Now what?

More than 110 utility crews from Austin Energy and neighboring companies are working to get electricity back up and running. Until then, here are some tips for dealing with debris.

Stay away from downed power lines.
Austin Energy warns downed lines might be energized and dangerous. Wait for professionals to clear away debris near power lines.

Check your insurance policy if you have damage
Unfortunately, most car insurance policies don’t account for natural damages, barring special circumstances. However, here are some tips for filing a claim on your home.

Don’t trim your trees — yet
An invasive, sap-eating beetle is on the loose. Wait until after July 1 to clear your canopy.

What should I do with the fallen branches?
Austin Resource Recovery requests that residents cut up large storm debris and leave it on the curb for collection.

More from ATXtoday
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
The countdown is on to Austin’s biggest music festival, and we’re here to help you maximize your wristband.
You have hundreds of sets to choose from this HAAM Day, and your attendance helps make sure Austin-based musicians stay healthy.
Parking in the city doesn’t have to be hard or expensive if you heed these tips from your friendly neighborhood editor at ATXtoday.
Whether you call it bubble tea or boba tea, we’ve brewed up the list of quali-tea boba shops you have oolong been waiting for.
Help us create a growing guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local makers, restaurants, and professionals, and sharing this page with a friend.
The 2025 edition of the festival will also debut a new food court called ACL Eats South so festival-goers can fill up without missing tunes.
Sometimes you get the munchies late at night, so we’re helping out with a list of spots that stay open late around Austin.
The Austin jeweler shared the inspiration behind her Flora collection and what winning Eliza Page’s Austin Shines contest means to her.
Journey through local history and travel into another era by visiting these businesses, restaurants, and bars where time stands still.