What Should You Do With a Storm Damaged Tree?

Strong winds and storms can cause significant damage to trees, from broken branches to complete tree failure. While some damage is immediately obvious, other problems are much harder to spot.

A tree that appears to have survived a storm might have damaged branches, a weakened trunk or movement around its roots. Knowing what to look for and when to seek professional advice helps protect people, property and the tree itself.

Check the Area Before You Check the Tree

After severe weather, your first consideration should be safety.

Look at the tree from a safe distance before approaching it. Watch for hanging branches, split limbs, fallen sections and trees that appear to have changed position. Never walk underneath a damaged tree to inspect it more closely. A branch weakened during a storm might fall without warning.

If a tree or large branch has fallen onto a road, building, vehicle or power line, keep away from the area and seek appropriate professional assistance.

Look for Broken or Hanging Branches

Broken branches are among the most common forms of storm damage.

Some fall immediately. Others remain partially attached to the tree and present a continuing risk.

Look for:

• Branches hanging at unusual angles.
• Freshly exposed wood.
• Split or cracked limbs.
• Large branches caught within the crown.
• Branches resting against buildings or other trees.

Avoid attempting to remove large damaged branches yourself. Storm damaged wood can behave unpredictably, particularly where branches remain under tension.

Has the Tree Started to Lean?

A tree leaning after a storm deserves professional attention, particularly if the lean is new. Movement at the base might indicate damage to the root system. Look for lifted soil, cracks in the ground or exposed roots around the base of the tree.

A mature tree places considerable weight and force through its roots. Significant movement during high winds might affect its stability even when the trunk itself appears undamaged.

Check for Cracks and Splits

Storm damage can create cracks in major branches or the main trunk.

Some are easy to see. Others occur higher in the crown and require professional inspection. Large splits where branches join the trunk are particularly important. The weight of the affected limb might cause the split to worsen over time.

This is one reason why a tree should not automatically be considered safe simply because it remained standing during the storm.

Does a Storm Damaged Tree Need to Be Removed?

Not necessarily.

Many damaged trees can be retained. The appropriate action depends on the extent of the damage, the condition of the tree and the risk it presents.

Professional tree work might involve removing damaged branches, deadwood removal, corrective pruning or reducing parts of the crown.Where severe structural or root damage makes the tree unsafe, complete removal might be the safest option.

A qualified tree surgeon should assess the condition of the tree before major work is undertaken.

What About Fallen Trees?

A completely fallen tree still requires careful handling.

Large trees are extremely heavy, and trunks and branches might remain under considerable tension after falling. Cutting them incorrectly can cause sections to move suddenly.

Professional tree surgeons have the equipment and training required to dismantle and remove fallen trees safely. Once the tree has been removed, the stump can either remain in place or be removed using stump grinding, depending on how you plan to use the area.

Should You Inspect Trees Before a Storm?

Prevention is often better than dealing with major storm damage afterwards.

If you have mature trees close to your home, driveway, public footpaths or neighbouring properties, regular inspection helps identify potential problems.Warning signs include dead branches, fungal growth, cavities, significant cracks, declining foliage and changes to the tree’s position.

Identifying these issues early gives you the opportunity to undertake appropriate tree work before severe weather exposes an existing weakness.

Need Advice About a Storm Damaged Tree?

ICS Tree Services provides professional tree surgery and tree management throughout Leeds and the surrounding areas. Our experienced team works with homeowners, businesses and organisations to assess damaged and potentially dangerous trees and recommend appropriate action.

If you are concerned about storm damaged trees following strong winds or severe weather, keep away from any damaged area and contact ICS Tree Services for professional advice.