How to Assess Tree Damage Following a Storm

Storms can leave behind more than just puddles and power outages—they often take a toll on the trees surrounding your home. High winds, heavy rain, lightning strikes, and even snow and ice can lead to broken limbs, split trunks, or fallen trees. While some trees recover, others may pose serious safety risks. Knowing how to assess tree damage after a storm can help you protect your property, prioritize repairs, and ensure the health of your landscape.

Step 1: Prioritize Safety First

Before inspecting any tree up close, make sure the area is safe. Look out for:

• Downed power lines tangled in branches
• Leaning trees or broken limbs suspended in the canopy
• Uprooted trees with exposed roots
• Cracks in large limbs or the trunk

If a tree has fallen on your house, car, or power lines, leave the area immediately and call emergency services. Only begin assessment once it’s safe to do so—or better yet, have a professional evaluate the situation.

Step 2: Look for Immediate Hazards

Examine your trees for signs of immediate danger, especially if they are near homes, driveways, or sidewalks. Common post-storm hazards include:

• Hanging branches that can fall at any time
• Split trunks or large vertical cracks
• Trees leaning more than usual, which can indicate root failure

These issues may not be immediately obvious but can worsen quickly if ignored. A storm-weakened tree might look stable yet could collapse days or weeks later.

Step 3: Evaluate Structural Damage

Inspect each tree starting from the base:

• Roots and base: Is the soil heaved? Are roots exposed or lifted? A partially uprooted tree may not survive.
• Trunk: Look for deep cracks, missing bark, or vertical splits.
• Main branches: Large broken limbs or missing scaffold branches may compromise the tree’s shape and structure.
• Canopy: Excessive leaf or branch loss can signal stress, especially in younger trees.

Keep in mind that trees with more than 50% crown loss may struggle to photosynthesize adequately and recover.

Step 4: Identify Signs of Recovery

Not all damage spells doom for a tree. Some can be pruned or nurtured back to health. Positive signs include:

• Minimal branch breakage
• No damage to the main trunk
• A still-stable, upright posture
• Healthy remaining canopy

Small trees or those with cosmetic damage often recover well with proper care.

Step 5: Know When a Tree Must Go

According to one of the best tree removal services, in some cases, the safest and most practical solution is removal. Trees that meet the following criteria are typically beyond saving:

• More than 50% of the canopy is gone
• Large cracks or splits in the trunk
• Major root damage or full uprooting
• Leaning significantly due to storm pressure

Leaving a dangerously damaged tree standing can pose serious risks. When in doubt, seek a certified arborist’s opinion. Many property owners choose to contact tree removal services to professionally assess and handle hazardous or dead trees.

Step 6: Document the Damage

If you plan to file an insurance claim, take photos of any damage to your trees, property, or landscape. Include wide shots and close-ups, and document the date of the storm and the extent of the damage. This helps support your claim and can speed up the processing time.

Step 7: Plan for Tree Recovery

If your tree is a candidate for recovery, help it bounce back by:

• Pruning broken branches properly at the branch collar
• Avoiding over-pruning—don’t remove more than 25% of the canopy in a single season
• Watering during dry periods, especially for newly stressed trees
• Applying mulch to retain moisture and regulate root temperature

You may also want to schedule a professional tree health evaluation a few months after the storm to monitor for signs of decay or disease.

After a storm, taking the time to assess tree damage can save lives, prevent property loss, and preserve the natural beauty of your yard. While some trees recover with time and care, others require expert intervention. Recognizing the warning signs early and acting accordingly ensures that your landscape remains safe and healthy long after the storm clouds have passed.

If you’re unsure about a tree’s stability or safety, it’s always wise to consult a professional arborist or hire a reputable tree service for peace of mind and proper resolution.