Yosemite alerts hikers to summer tree-branch hazard after fatal accident

Yosemite National Park issued a safety notice describing a seasonal risk known as “Summer Branch Drop,” when long, horizontal limbs break from black oaks on hot, windless days. The warning follows a July 2025 incident in which a 29-year-old hiker was killed after a branch from a giant sequoia-adjacent oak struck her head in Tuolumne Grove. Officials noted that these breaks often occur several feet from the trunk and can affect trees that appear sound, though older, less vigorous specimens are more prone.

To reduce danger, the park recommends keeping infants, seniors and camping gear away from large oak canopies, fleeing the area if a loud crack is heard, and steering clear of trees that have already lost limbs. Rangers also urged visitors to notify staff of any fallen branches to aid in monitoring and maintenance efforts.