Aftermath of severe storm in Lithuania: firefighters called out 16 times to remove fallen trees

Fire and rescue teams responded 16 times overnight to clear roads blocked by fallen trees after a powerful storm swept across Lithuania, state broadcaster LRT reports.

All emergency calls were related to trees obstructing traffic routes, with no reports of damage to homes, vehicles, or power lines. The majority of incidents occurred in Kaunas County (6 calls), followed by Marijampolė County (3) and Alytus County (2). Single callouts were recorded in Vilnius, Šiauliai, Tauragė, Telšiai, and Utena counties.

Though Lithuania’s hydrometeorological service forecasts calmer weather, authorities warn that further storm-related incidents may still emerge. Fallen trees and broken branches are often only discovered the following day as residents resume travel or visit outdoor areas.

This year, firefighters have already conducted 516 operations to remove fallen trees and branches, with the highest numbers in April (194) and May (205). In 2025, teams responded 1,610 times for similar incidents, peaking in June (394) and July (209). By comparison, July 2024 saw 1,555 storm-related tree removals after severe winds struck the country.

The Fire Protection and Rescue Department urges residents to prepare for extreme weather by securing loose objects, avoiding parking near trees or unstable structures, and steering clear of forests or parks during high winds. Emergency services remind the public to report downed power lines immediately and to call 112 only in cases of direct threat to life, health, or property. Safety guidelines are available on the national emergency preparedness portal LT72.