Summers in Austin often bring beautiful sunsets and clear skies, but they can also bring strong winds and sudden storms that leave trees battered and backyards a mess. Branches snap, trunks split, and large limbs come crashing down. When a storm hits this hard, the damage left behind isn’t just about looks. It’s about safety. Torn limbs can fall days after the storm, and leaning trees can tip without warning. That’s why it’s important to address tree problems quickly and safely.
Whether a tree in your yard took the full brunt of the storm or one just has a few dangling branches, these problems can’t be ignored. Acting fast and bringing in professionals helps prevent more damage, injuries, or extra headaches. Let’s take a look at what to do when a storm hits and which warning signs you need to pay close attention to once it passes.
Immediate Steps To Take After A Storm
Storm damage can be stressful, but knowing what to do helps keep you, your family, and your property safe in the aftermath. Once the weather has cleared and it’s safe to go outside, begin with the basics.
1. Check the area for visible hazards
Look around your yard carefully. Stay alert for downed power lines, snapped branches hanging in the canopy, or trees that are leaning more than they should. If something seems off or dangerous, keep your distance.
2. Assess tree damage from a safe distance
You don’t need to get too close to get a general sense of which trees have suffered damage. Make note of:
– Trees that are leaning more than usual
– Large branches that are broken or hanging
– Cracks in the trunk
– Uprooted trees or exposed roots
– Trees that shifted enough to affect nearby fences or structures
3. Avoid trying to remove large limbs or trees yourself
Heavy, tangled branches and damaged trunks can be unpredictable. It’s not uncommon for a branch to break days after a storm once it’s dried out or stress builds in the right place. Attempting to clear it yourself can result in injuries or property damage.
4. Call in professionals
Once you have a general picture of what the storm has done, it’s time to bring in experts who are trained to safely remove unstable trees and limbs. They have the gear and skills to keep things from getting worse.
For example, after a summer storm rolled through South Austin last August, a homeowner found one of their large oaks leaning against the edge of their roof. It didn’t crash through, but the trunk had shifted inches from its base. Instead of attempting to fix the lean with ropes or trying to climb the tree themselves, they called in a professional crew. The team arrived with the right equipment and safely removed the tree without damaging the home. That kind of outcome is worth the fast call.
Being cautious during and immediately after a storm can make a big difference. The sooner you respond, the more you can reduce the risk that damaged trees will cause further harm.
Common Tree Issues Post-Storm
When a storm sweeps through, trees don’t all break or fall the same way. Some problems are easy to spot, while others might look minor at first but cause big issues later. Here are some of the most common problems to watch for once the rain and wind stop.
– Fallen and uprooted trees
One of the most obvious signs of damage is a tree that’s fully tipped over. Uprooted trees often pull up sections of lawn or sidewalk with them. These aren’t just a visual problem; they can block driveways or damage structures. Trees that have fallen can also shift suddenly if not handled correctly.
– Broken or hanging limbs
Storms commonly tear branches from the top or middle of the tree. These limbs might hang in place for hours or days before dropping. Even if they seem stable, a bit of wind or weight can send them down. Broken limbs still attached can also harm the rest of the tree over time.
– Split or cracked trunks
Some trees may not fall but end up with vertical cracks or splits running down their trunks. These are dangerous because they weaken the entire support system of the tree. Trees with large splits can fail later, especially if stressed by another storm or high temperatures.
– Leaning trees
A tree that’s still standing but at a new angle might be slowly falling. Leaning trees often have damaged roots, making them unstable. If the lean is new or severe, that tree could easily fall without warning.
– Signs of root damage
It’s not always obvious, but strong winds can disrupt or even rip roots from the ground. Look for lifted soil at the base, mushrooms or fungus growing around the trunk, and branches near the top dying back. These signs might point to root problems that weakened the tree structure.
Each of these issues has its own risks, and many show up days or weeks after the storm. If you spot any of them, it’s a good idea to bring in professionals to check things out before the problem grows worse. Waiting can turn a manageable job into something more dangerous and costly.
Benefits Of Professional Emergency Tree Removal
Engaging professionals for emergency tree removal after a storm isn’t just about clearing the yard quickly. It’s about handling everything safely and efficiently. Here’s why relying on experts makes the most sense:
1. Safety for everyone
Handling tree damage can be risky. Professionals know how to deal with heavy branches and unstable trees without putting anyone in harm’s way. Their methods keep everything under control and reduce the chance of accidents.
2. Right tools and equipment
Tree removal teams come equipped with specialized gear. From chainsaws designed for large limbs to cranes for lifting entire fallen trees, they have what it takes to handle various situations and get the job done right.
3. Speed and efficiency
When storms hit, you want the debris gone fast. Professional crews work quickly, minimizing downtime for you and preventing additional damage to your property. They know how to deal with everything in a swift, organized way.
4. Thorough cleanup
Once the trees and limbs are taken care of, you’re left with a lot of stray branches and other debris. Professionals make sure everything is cleared up, giving you a clean slate to start planning for the future or just enjoying your space again.
By addressing storm damage promptly with skilled teams, you minimize future risks and protect your home and family.
Preventive Measures For Future Storms
While no one can stop a storm from hitting, you can get ready before it does. Taking steps now helps reduce potential tree damage later. Here are some things to consider:
– Regular tree maintenance
Keep up with regular pruning and inspections. Removing weak or dead branches before a storm means less debris afterward and healthier trees overall.
– Choosing storm-resistant trees
When planting new trees, opt for species that withstand harsh weather better. Native trees like live oaks or cedar elms tend to hold up well in Austin’s climate.
– Support systems for trees
In some cases, adding supports like cables or braces can help your trees stand up to strong winds. This keeps trees stable and reduces risk during storms.
Keeping a routine for tree care not only benefits your yard immediately but also protects it when the weather turns rough.
Restoring Your Landscape After Storm Damage
Once the storms and their immediate aftermath have been addressed, it’s time to think about getting your yard back in shape. Here’s where you can focus your efforts:
1. Replanting and repairing
Start by deciding if you want to replace any trees you lost. Choose wisely based on which areas and types of trees seem to thrive in your space.
2. Checking the soil
Storms can wash away nutrients the soil needs. Check soil health and, if needed, add the right amendments to prepare for replanting or reseeding grass.
3. Long-term care
Continue regular checks on your trees. Ongoing care helps ensure any new or remaining trees stay strong and healthy, leading to a safer and more appealing landscape.
Restoration after a storm doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Step by step, you can make sure your yard returns to the thriving, lush space you enjoy.
Why Quick Tree Help Makes All the Difference
In the wake of a storm, acting wisely and quickly is key to protecting what matters most. Storm-damaged trees aren’t just an eyesore. They can be a safety threat and lead to even greater damage if left alone. Getting help from trained professionals means these risks are dealt with the right way. From immediate cleanup to long-term care, expert support helps bring order back to your yard. Choosing the right help means your property is safer, your trees stay healthier, and your recovery happens faster.
When storms leave your Austin property in disarray, the H.O.W. Foundation is here to restore your peace of mind. Our team handles emergency tree removal in Austin with care and expertise, no matter how tough the job. Let us help you protect your home and bring your landscape back to life. Contact our crew today for dependable, professional service in your area.