CBS news interviewed arborist Rebecca Latta on how the combination of drought and a sudden heavy rain can damage trees. An unusual number of trees came down across the region last month, following heavier-than-usual rain and wind, the result of trees weakened by parched soils from an extended period of drought.

Latta warns that homeowners should examine their trees regularly for any unusual signs, such as mushroom growth near roots, oozing sap, branch dieback or broken branches. All of these are signs that something could be wrong with the tree, and a certified arborist should be called. “It’s important to keep your trees maintained by an expert,” she said.