Never is danger greater to a tree than during the inevitable trial by storm. The weight of ice or snow and the fury of wind test the strength of limbs, trunks, and roots. The homeowner, helpless at the moment, can only watch and hope that the tree survives. Survival or loss – the key can be the care you give your tree before and after a storm. Knowing ahead of time what to do when a storm strikes can prevent or minimize your financial loss.
- Take safety precautions. Be on the alert for downed power lines and “widow makers,” dangerous hanging branches ready to fall. And, unless you really know how to use one, leave chain saw work to the professionals.
- Remove broken branches that are still attached to the tree. Branches should be pruned at the point where they join larger ones.
- Don’t top your trees. Never cut the main branches back to stubs. Ugly, weakly attached limbs will often grow back higher than the original branches and be more likely to break off in a future storm.
Prepare Before the Storm
The best storm response begins long before the wind arrives. Have mature trees inspected for deadwood, weak branch unions, and signs of decay, and remove hazards while conditions are calm. Trees with a healthy, balanced canopy and sound roots handle wind and ice far better than neglected ones. Keep records and photos of your trees as well, since clear documentation helps if you ever need to file an insurance claim.
After the Storm: Assess Before You Act
Once a storm passes, stay clear of any tree touching or near a power line and treat every downed line as live. Look up for broken limbs hung in the canopy, often called hangers, which can fall without warning. Small broken branches within easy reach can be pruned back to a healthy union. Large limbs, split trunks, partially uprooted trees, and anything requiring a ladder or chainsaw overhead are jobs for a trained crew with proper equipment.
Hometown Tree Experts offers rapid response across Maryland when storms cause damage. See our emergency tree service page or call 301-250-1033 any time you face a hazardous tree.