Storms can arrive quickly and leave behind a mess, especially regarding your trees and landscaping. High winds, lightning, and heavy rain can cause significant damage to even the healthiest trees. If you’re stepping outside after a storm and wondering what to do next, you’re not alone. At Abbott Tree Care, we understand the importance of acting quickly and safely when dealing with storm-related tree damage. This guide will walk you through what to look for, how to stay safe, and when to call in the professionals.
Take a Step Back and Safely Assess
After a storm, your first instinct might be to rush outside and start cleaning up, but safety comes first. Before you do anything, take a moment to look around and make sure the area is safe. Stay far away from downed power lines. Watch for hanging branches that could still fall. Avoid standing under damaged trees or limbs that look unstable. It’s always best to call a professional if anything looks dangerous or questionable. It’s not worth risking your safety.
Look for Signs of Tree Damage
Not all storm damage is apparent right away. Even if a tree looks okay from a distance, it could have internal cracks, root issues, or broken limbs that haven’t fallen yet. As you walk your property, watch for split branches or trunks, trees that are leaning or uprooted, bark wounds or exposed roots, and limbs that are clearly broken but still caught in the canopy. Some trees can be saved with proper care, but others may need to be removed for safety reasons.
Don’t DIY Large Tree Cleanup
Grabbing a chainsaw and hacking away might be tempting, but it’s important to remember that storm-damaged trees are unpredictable. Tension in broken branches can cause them to snap back unexpectedly, and working at height or near structures adds another layer of danger. It’s always best to leave this to the professionals.
This is where a certified arborist can step in. At Abbott Tree Care, we know how to assess damage safely, determine what can be saved, and remove what can’t.
Clean Up What You Can
You can begin clearing smaller debris like twigs and fallen leaves if it’s safe and manageable. Rake up debris to prevent lawn damage and consider composting healthy organic matter. Avoid dragging large limbs or disturbing the root zone around damaged trees until a professional has taken a look. You don’t want to add more stress to a tree that’s already struggling.
Schedule a Professional Tree Inspection
Even trees that seem unharmed after a storm can suffer long-term effects, mainly if the damage isn’t addressed early. A post-storm inspection by a certified arborist can help identify hidden issues, prevent future hazards, and guide recovery efforts. At Abbott Tree Care, we offer storm cleanup services, including complete inspections, branch and tree removal, and restorative pruning. We aim to help your landscape recover while preserving as much as possible.
Plan For the Next Storm
Once things are back to normal, take time to prepare your yard for future weather. Regular pruning, removing weak or dead limbs, and keeping trees healthy can reduce the risk of storm damage next time around. Our team is happy to walk your property with you and offer advice on what preventative steps make the most sense.
Storm cleanup can feel overwhelming, but you’re not in it alone. Abbott Tree Care is here to help you clean up safely and efficiently, whether you’re dealing with a few scattered limbs or a fallen tree. Our team of certified arborists is trained to spot hidden damage, remove hazards, and guide your trees back to health. Reach out today to schedule an inspection or get help with storm damage. You can count on us to help your landscape recover.
