Residents at 392 6A Avenue were woken up in the early hours of Sunday morning by a loud crashing sound. The large tree on the property had fallen onto their home, a mess left after Fernie was hit with heavy rain over the weekend.
The tree fell at approximately 5:30 a.m. on Sunday, hitting the south-facing side of the house, chipping at the chimney and eventually crashing atop two vehicles parked at the home.
Jordan Scott and Helena Berndt were house-sitting the residence for their friends and informed the owners — who are away in Victoria — of the fallen tree.
“There’s nothing much really we can do at this point except wait to chop it up and have a fire,” said Scott, who said they were waiting on insurance to show up to assess the damage.
Neighbours and passersby were quick to offer their help and condolences. Mugs of tea were handed out, chainsaws made available to borrow.
“Everyone’s been really nice and tried to help,” said Scott who fielded many glances from the busy Fourth Street the house is adjacent to.