Storms can bring strong winds and heavy rain, but sometimes the storm isn’t the only reason a tree fails. Existing damage, decay or structural problems can make a tree more vulnerable long before bad weather arrives.
While not every damaged tree needs to be removed, knowing what to look for can help homeowners recognize when it may be time to have a tree professionally evaluated.
1. Dead or Hanging Limbs
Large dead branches, broken limbs or branches hanging in the canopy can fall without much warning. Pay particular attention to limbs over your home, driveway, vehicles or areas where your family regularly spends time.
2. Cracks or Splits in the Trunk
Deep cracks, splitting trunks or separation where large limbs meet can indicate structural weakness. These areas may be placed under even more stress during high winds.
3. Decay or Cavities
Mushrooms near the base, hollow areas, cavities or visibly decaying wood can sometimes indicate internal deterioration. A tree may still have green leaves while portions of its trunk or root system are compromised.
4. Changes Around the Roots
The root system is what anchors a tree. Look for exposed or damaged roots, soil lifting around the base, or new movement in the ground. These can be especially concerning after periods of heavy rain when saturated soil can reduce a tree’s stability.
5. A New or Increasing Lean
Some healthy trees naturally grow at an angle. A tree that has recently begun leaning, however, or one whose lean appears to be increasing deserves attention—particularly when it is leaning toward a house, driveway, utility line or other structure.
Don’t Wait for the Storm to Find the Problem
The best time to identify a potentially hazardous tree is before severe weather arrives. Take a walk around your property periodically and look up as well as down. If something has changed or simply doesn’t look right, a professional evaluation can help determine whether the tree needs pruning, monitoring or removal.
Being proactive can help protect your home, property and the people around it before the next storm arrives.
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