Storm damage can leave your trees broken, leaning, or hazardous. Here’s what you should do immediately after severe weather to keep your family safe and protect your property.

Step 1: Put Safety First

After a storm, your priority should always be safety. Damaged trees can hide serious hazards—such as downed power lines, unstable branches, or weakened trunks ready to fall.

• Stay clear of any tree tangled with electrical wires.
• Keep children and pets away until the area is secure.
• If you suspect danger, contact emergency services before approaching the tree.

🌐 Resource: FEMA Storm Safety Tips

Step 2: Assess the Damage

Take a close but cautious look at your trees. Signs of storm damage include:

• Large, broken branches
• Trees that are leaning or uprooted
• Cracks in the trunk
• Splintered or hanging limbs

Step 3: Decide What Can Be Saved

Not every damaged tree needs to be removed. In many cases, professional pruning can restore health and shape. However, trees with split trunks, severe root damage, or dangerous lean may need removal to protect your home and property.

Step 4: Call a Certified Arborist

Storm cleanup is not a DIY project when it comes to trees. Large limbs, chainsaws, and unstable trees require professional expertise. A certified arborist can:

• Safely remove dangerous branches
• Provide emergency tree removal if needed
• Help preserve trees that can be saved
• Advise on long-term recovery and care

Step 5: Plan for Prevention

Storm damage can’t always be avoided, but proper care reduces risks.

• Schedule regular pruning to remove weak limbs.
• Fertilize and water properly to strengthen roots.
• Remove hazardous trees before they become a threat.

Final Thoughts

Storm damage to trees is stressful, but you don’t have to handle it alone. At Whits End Tree Care, we provide professional storm response, cleanup, and preventative maintenance to keep your property safe year-round.