Trees are essential for urban life, providing oxygen, cooling air, and filtering pollution. Super typhoon Yagi caused significant damage to urban forests in Vietnam, with over 25,000-40,000 trees downed in Hanoi alone. The disaster showed tree selection, planting, and care are essential to mitigate the impact of such natural hazards.

One strategy to strengthen urban green spaces is the creation of root spaces that also mitigate flooding. Current tree pits are often poorly designed, hindering trees' ability to absorb water and nutrients. Sustainable designs should include tree pits that connect to ecological drainage channels, allowing rainwater to be stored and supplied to trees, thereby improving their health and reducing urban flooding.

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Additionally, prioritising the selection of wind-resistant tree species is crucial. Traditional tree selection often focuses on aesthetics and shade, neglecting the ability to withstand strong winds. The felled trees were in stark contrast to areas in the same city where more resilient tree species had been planted. Research into wind-resistant species will be vital for developing more robust urban green spaces, ensuring that trees can thrive amid extreme weather conditions.