Storm Timeline Edit page

On June 22, 2026, at approximately 5:00 PM, the Chatham Towne community was struck by a devastating microburst storm that severely damaged many homes and destroyed many trees. Although the storm lasted only about two minutes, its impact will be felt for years.

Immediately after the storm, the HOA President, Christine Zender and Christie Beruete, the community's property manager, began coordinating the emergency response. Christie immediately worked to secure an emergency tree removal contractor, while the President documented the extensive damage by photographing the entire community that evening. Those photographs became an important part of the HOA's insurance claim.

On June 23, Green Vista Tree Care was contracted to perform the initial emergency response. Their crews cleared all roads and sidewalks of fallen trees and limbs and removed hazardous hanging branches that posed an immediate safety risk. Their mission was to make the community safe and restore access as quickly as possible. Green Vista specializes in emergency tree removal and had approximately 12 crew members, along with numerous pieces of heavy equipment, working in the community. By the end of June 23, all roads and sidewalks had been cleared and made safe.

Sentry Management obtained proposals from three qualified tree removal contractors to perform the next phase of cleanup, which included removing fallen trees and storm debris throughout the interior of the community. The contractors surveyed the property between June 24 and June 26, and all three proposals were received by June 27.

One contractor could not begin work for at least 40 days, while another estimated a minimum two-week delay because they were already committed to storm recovery projects across Virginia. The third contractor, Stumpbusters, LLC, was able to begin work on July 6. In addition to having the earliest availability, Stumpbusters submitted the lowest qualified bid, allowing the Board to respond quickly to hire them.  Like Green Vista, Stumpbusters specializes exclusively in tree removal, making them well qualified to perform Phase I of the community's cleanup effort.  On June 24-26, “I Do That Too” (a local company) contributed to the cleanup effort by hauling away the destroyed shed and its contents along with clearing all the playgrounds and sport court of downed trees and other debris.  

As a result of the storm, more than 85 trees either fell or were so severely damaged that they must be removed. This unprecedented level of destruction highlights the magnitude of the cleanup effort facing our community. While significant progress has been made, removing the remaining damaged trees, brush, and debris along the perimeter of the community is expected to take several more months.

To date, the HOA has spent approximately $40,000 on storm cleanup. The Board remains committed to being responsible stewards of the Association's funds. By taking the time to obtain multiple quotes, we were able to reduce costs while still securing qualified contractors and ensuring the work is completed safely and effectively.  Phase I focused on the interior of the community—the residential living areas where the greatest impact to homeowners occurred.  Phase II will focus on the perimeter of the community, including the areas along Zion Drive and Guinea Road.