looks like some big stuff fell. How high up was that? Not familiar with Cottonwood. I would guess that is a 'softer' hardwood? Is it good firewood at least?
Cottonwood are large trees and found in my area and find them along a water source.
A mature tree will use up to 75 gallons of water a day. Not a good firewood. Lighting likes them.
A PITA in spring when their seeds drop a white floating cotton type substance that blows around for a few weeks.
Some days it looks like we've had a light snow. Crap gets in the garage, car if you leave the windows down, AC unit has to be kept clean, air filter on Zero trac, etc...