What to Do When Storm Damage Affects Your Trees
Heavy winds, ice storms, and saturated soil are common causes of tree damage in the Twin Cities. Knowing what to do after a storm can prevent further property damage and help you restore your landscape safely, whether it’s a cracked trunk, hanging limbs, or a fallen tree.
Let’s walk through the most common types of storm-related tree damage, what signs to look for, and how to decide when professional help is needed.
Common Types of Storm Damage to Trees
Broken or Hanging Branches
Large limbs split or hang after heavy winds, creating hazards for people, vehicles, powerlines, and roofs.
Uprooted Trees
Saturated soil combined with wind can cause entire trees to fall, especially shallow-rooted or weakened species like silver maple and boxelder.
Cracked or Split Trunks
Lightning, wind stress, or heavy snow can cause structural cracks in trees that compromise their long-term stability.
Canopy Loss or Leaf Stripping
Though usually less dangerous, a stripped canopy is a sign the tree has been stressed and may be vulnerable to disease.
What to Do After a Storm Hits
1. Stay Safe
Always avoid fallen trees or dangling limbs. If a tree is entangled with utility lines, call the power company and avoid the area entirely.
2. Inspect the Tree
Check for signs of severe damage like large cracks, lifted root plates, or major branch loss. Removal may be the safest option when more than half the canopy is affected or structural integrity is compromised.
3. Document the Damage
Photograph the affected areas from multiple angles before cleanup begins. This documentation is not only useful for your own records but may also be needed if you plan to file an insurance claim. While many policies cover storm damage to structures or fallen trees that block driveways, coverage can vary—check with your provider for specific details.
4. Contact a Professional
Avoid the risks of do-it-yourself cleanup. Working with emergency tree service experts ensures the situation is handled safely, especially when damaged trees are unstable or near structures.
Should the Tree Be Removed or Restored?
Determining whether a tree can be saved depends on its condition and location. If only a few limbs are affected, tree trimming services can often preserve the tree’s health and structure. However, trees with significant trunk damage, root instability, or a high risk of failure may require complete removal to protect nearby property and people.
We can assess the extent of the damage and recommend the safest, most cost-effective option.
Preventing Future Storm Damage
Preventive care is one of the best defenses against severe storm damage. Trimming branches that overhang buildings, removing deadwood, and correcting weak structures reduces wind resistance and the likelihood of breakage. Regular inspections also allow you to identify and address minor issues before they become significant hazards.
If you haven’t had your trees evaluated recently, scheduling proactive trimming can help minimize risks when the next storm rolls in.
Final Tip:
Storms are unpredictable, but your tree care doesn’t have to be. By acting quickly after damage and planning for maintenance, you can protect your property and preserve the health of your trees year-round.