Assessing Storm-Damaged Trees: When to Call for Emergency Removal

Table of Contents

1. How Storms Impact Trees
2. Signs of a Dangerous Storm-Damaged Tree
3. When Is Emergency Tree Removal Necessary?
4. How Professionals Assess Storm-Damaged Trees
5. Steps to Take Before Emergency Tree Services Arrive
6. Preventative Measures to Protect Your Trees from Storm Damage

Severe storms can leave behind a trail of destruction, often affecting trees on residential and commercial properties. While some trees may recover, others become unstable and pose an immediate threat to homes, power lines, and people. Knowing when a storm-damaged tree requires emergency removal can prevent accidents, property damage, and costly repairs. In this guide, we’ll cover how to assess storm-damaged trees and when to call for professional help.

How Storms Impact Trees

Storms bring heavy winds, lightning, excessive rainfall, and sometimes hail, all of which can compromise a tree’s structure. Common storm-related damages include:

• Broken or Hanging Limbs: Heavy winds and ice accumulation can snap branches, making them a hazard.
• Uprooted Trees: Excessive rain can weaken the soil, causing trees to lean or fall completely.
• Lightning Strikes: Trees hit by lightning may show external bark damage or internal decay.
• Splintered or Cracked Trunks: Wind stress can cause deep cracks, weakening the tree’s stability.
• Root System Damage: Erosion or waterlogged soil can lead to weak roots, making trees more likely to fall.

Signs of a Dangerous Storm-Damaged Tree

After a major storm, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed by the damage left behind—especially if a large tree in your yard took a hit. Not every tree needs to come down immediately, but some signs should prompt urgent action. If you notice any of the following, it’s best to call a professional before the situation gets worse:

• The Tree Is Suddenly Leaning
  A tree that was once standing tall but is now tilted to one side likely suffered root damage or structural compromise during the storm. Leaning trees can fall without warning and should be treated as a serious hazard—especially if they’re close to a home, driveway, or street.

• Large Branches Are Hanging or Broken
  Dangling limbs or partially detached branches might not seem urgent at first, but they can come crashing down at any moment—especially in windy conditions. These “widow-makers” pose a real danger to people, pets, and property below.

• Deep Cracks or Splits in the Trunk
  If you spot long cracks running down the trunk or major splits where branches connect, your tree’s structural integrity may be compromised. Even if the tree is still upright, it could be one gust away from collapsing.

• Roots Are Exposed or Uprooted
  When you see the base of the tree lifting or roots sticking out of the ground, it’s often a sign that the tree is no longer stable. Root systems are what anchor trees in place—when they’re damaged, the whole tree becomes unpredictable and unsafe.

• The Tree Is Touching or Near Power Lines
  This is one situation where you should never attempt to handle it yourself. A tree that’s come in contact with power lines (or is close to doing so) poses a life-threatening risk. Call your utility company immediately and keep a safe distance.

• Rot, Hollow Areas, or Fungal Growth Are Visible
  Sometimes storms reveal problems that were already there. If you now notice soft wood, mushrooms at the base, or hollow areas in the trunk, these are signs the tree may already be dying. Add storm damage to the mix, and the risk of failure goes up significantly.

When Is Emergency Tree Removal Necessary?

Some trees can be saved through trimming or bracing, but others require immediate removal. Below is a comparison of when a tree can be treated versus when it needs emergency removal:

If your tree falls into the emergency removal category, contact a professional tree service immediately to assess and remove the hazard safely.

How Professionals Assess Storm-Damaged Trees

Arborists use a step-by-step evaluation process to determine whether a tree can be saved or if removal is necessary:

1. Visual Inspection: Checking for cracks, hollow areas, or significant limb damage.
2. Stability Testing: Assessing the root system and overall balance of the tree.
3. Decay & Disease Check: Looking for pre-existing weaknesses worsened by the storm.
4. Risk Assessment: Determining whether the tree poses an immediate threat to property or safety.
5. Recommendation: Either applying treatments like bracing and pruning or proceeding with safe removal.

Steps to Take Before Emergency Tree Services Arrive

If a storm-damaged tree is threatening your property, take these precautionary steps before professionals arrive:

• Keep a Safe Distance: Stay away from leaning trees, broken limbs, or trees tangled in power lines.
• Assess Immediate Hazards: If a tree has fallen on your home, evacuate and call emergency services if necessary.
• Take Photos for Insurance: Document the damage to support your insurance claim.
• Avoid DIY Removal: Large or unstable trees require specialized equipment and expertise—leave it to the professionals.

Preventative Measures to Protect Your Trees from Storm Damage

While no tree is completely storm-proof, proper maintenance can reduce risks. Consider these preventative measures:

• Regular Pruning: Removing weak or dead branches prevents unnecessary breakage during storms.
• Tree Health Inspections: Have an arborist assess your trees annually to catch early signs of disease or decay.
• Proper Tree Placement: Avoid planting trees too close to homes, driveways, or power lines.
• Soil Care & Mulching: Strengthening root systems with nutrient-rich soil and mulch can improve stability.
• Bracing & Cabling: Support systems for young or weak trees can help them withstand strong winds.

Conclusion

Storm-damaged trees can be unpredictable, making it critical to assess them properly and act quickly. If your tree is leaning dangerously, has significant limb damage, or is entangled in power lines, don’t wait—call for emergency removal immediately.

At 770 Arborist, we specialize in rapid-response emergency tree removal services to keep your property safe. Our expert arborists are available to assess storm-damaged trees, provide professional recommendations, and safely remove hazardous trees. Contact us today for emergency tree assistance and storm damage cleanup!

Canton, GA:

• 770 Arborist Emergency Tree & Crane Service
• 833 Roper Rd, Canton, GA 30115
• Call: 470-942-2080

Atlanta, GA:

• 770 Arborist Emergency Tree & Crane Service
• 8097 Roswell Rd Office B Atlanta GA 30350
• Call: (770) 758-8590