First Steps After the Storm Passes
Once the storm is over and it is safe to go outside, start by checking your property for obvious hazards. Look for branches that are hanging by a strip of bark, trunks that are split or leaning, and trees that have uprooted partially. Do not walk under a tree that has visible damage, because limbs can fall without warning. If you see a tree leaning toward your house or a power line, stay clear and call a professional immediately.
If there are downed branches blocking a door or driveway, move them only if you can do so without reaching into the tree's canopy. Never pull on a branch that is still attached, because it may spring back or bring more debris down. Take photos of the damage for your records, especially if you plan to file an insurance claim. Then contact your tree service to schedule an assessment. Quick action can prevent further damage from weakened limbs.
How to Assess Damage Without Climbing
From the ground, look at the trunk for cracks, splits, or areas where the bark has been stripped away. A vertical crack that runs down the trunk is a sign that the tree may fail completely. Also check the root flare, the area where the trunk meets the ground. If the soil is pushed up on one side, the roots may have torn. That kind of damage is often fatal, especially for large trees, because the tree cannot take up water properly.
Look at the canopy for broken branches that are still lodged in the tree, called hang-ups. These can fall days or weeks later. Also note whether the tree has lost a large percentage of its leaves. A tree that has lost more than half of its canopy may not have enough energy to recover. If the tree is a species that is naturally resilient, like a live oak, it may survive with proper care. A contractor can tell you whether the tree is worth saving.
When to Remove a Tree and When to Save It
Some damage is repairable, and some is not. A tree that has lost a few limbs but still has a solid trunk and intact root system can usually be pruned and saved. The crew will make clean cuts at the branch collar to remove broken stubs, and the tree will seal the wounds over time. A tree that is leaning more than 15 degrees from vertical, with exposed roots on the uphill side, is likely to fall eventually and should be removed.
A tree that has a split trunk or a large crack running through the main stem is also a removal candidate. That kind of damage cannot be repaired, and the tree is structurally unsound. If the tree is near a house, driveway, or play area, removal is the safest choice. Your contractor can explain the trade-offs. In some cases, cabling or bracing can support a damaged limb, but that is a temporary measure, not a permanent fix.
Helping a Damaged Tree Recover
If the tree can be saved, the first step is to prune the broken branches properly. Do not try to do this yourself if the damage is high up or involves large limbs. A professional will remove the damaged wood without tearing the bark further. After pruning, water the tree deeply once a week if there is no rain. A stressed tree needs moisture to push out new growth and seal wounds. Avoid fertilizing until the next growing season, because fertilizer can push weak growth that the tree cannot support.
Mulch around the base of the tree with a two- to three-inch layer of wood chips, keeping the mulch away from the trunk. This helps the soil retain moisture and protects the roots from temperature swings. Do not pile mulch against the bark, because that can cause rot. Watch the tree over the next year for signs of decline, such as thinning canopy, yellowing leaves, or fungal growth at the base. If you see these, call an arborist for a follow-up evaluation.
Preparing for the Next Storm
You cannot prevent every storm, but you can reduce the risk of damage. Have your trees inspected regularly by a tree service. They can identify weak limbs, decay, or poor structure before a storm hits. Thinning the canopy reduces wind resistance, making the tree less likely to uproot or lose limbs. Removing deadwood removes potential projectiles. Also check that trees near your house have enough clearance from the roof and siding.
After a storm, do not rush to remove a tree that is still standing unless it is clearly unsafe. Some trees look worse than they are and will recover with time and care. Keep a list of local tree services handy so you can call quickly if needed. David Espinoza Tree Service offers emergency tree service in Lago Vista and the surrounding Hill Country, and we can help you assess damage and make a plan for recovery.