What to Do When a Storm Damages a Tree
By TreeOmaha.com
Strong storms are common in Omaha and the surrounding communities. High winds, heavy rain, ice, and snow can damage trees in just a few minutes. Broken branches, split trunks, and fallen trees can create serious problems for your home and property.
Knowing what to do after a storm can help keep your family safe and prevent more damage.
Stay Away From Damaged Trees
The first step is to stay away from the damaged tree. Broken branches can fall without warning. A tree that is leaning may also fall later.
Do not walk under large broken branches. Keep children and pets away from the area until the tree has been checked.
Watch for Power Lines
Never go near a tree that has fallen on or near a power line. Even if the line does not appear to be live, it can still be dangerous.
Stay away from the area and contact the power company or emergency services when needed. Do not touch the tree, branches, or power lines.
Look for Major Damage
From a safe place, look at the tree for signs of serious damage. These may include:
• Large broken branches
• A split trunk
• A tree that is leaning
• Uprooted roots
• Large cracks
• Broken branches hanging in the tree
• A tree that has fallen on a home, car, or other structure
Even damage that looks small from the ground can create a safety problem.
Do Not Try to Cut Large Branches
It may be tempting to grab a chainsaw and remove storm-damaged branches yourself. This can be very dangerous.
Large branches can be under a great deal of pressure. When cut, they can move or fall in unexpected ways. A damaged tree may also be unstable.
Leave large or dangerous branches to trained tree professionals.
Check Your Property
Once it is safe, look around your property for damage. Check your roof, fences, vehicles, sheds, and other structures.
Take pictures of the damage if it is safe to do so. These pictures may also be helpful when talking with your insurance company.
Have the Tree Inspected
Storm damage is not always easy to see. A tree may look fine but have hidden cracks or root damage.
A Certified Arborist can inspect the tree and help determine what should happen next. Depending on the damage, the tree may need trimming, cabling, treatment, or removal.
Acting quickly can also help prevent additional property damage.
Storm Damage in Omaha
Omaha-area trees can face strong winds and severe weather throughout the year. Taking care of storm damage quickly can help protect your home and property.
Enfield’s Tree Service has served Omaha and surrounding communities since 1961. Our family business brings years of tree care experience and knowledge to storm-damaged trees.
If a storm has damaged a tree on your property, call Enfield’s Tree Service at 402-287-3248. We can help you understand the safest next step.
Safety Disclaimer
Your safety is our primary concern. Please refer to a qualified tree care professional for an inspection and professional opinion before beginning any work. Never climb a damaged tree or use a chainsaw on large storm-damaged branches. Stay away from trees touching power lines and contact the proper utility company.