Severe weather events can occur at any time and impact your trees and property. In our Southeastern United States region, these events tend to become more frequent during this season. Such storms pose potential dangers and can have devastating effects on communities and their tree population. Trees play a vital role in our ecosystem, and our goal is to consistently maintain the urban canopy. While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk associated with trees, steps can be taken to reduce it to a level that aligns with your personal comfort.
We’ve outlined some precautionary measures you can consider taking before a significant weather event to prepare for potential tree-related emergencies.
- Observe how your trees respond during typical wind conditions.
Monitoring your trees closely is crucial since you have a front-row view of their behavior on your property. Your familiarity with your trees’ normal behavior is unmatched. Compare the movement of your trees to similar ones in the vicinity. For example, pine trees often sway and bend during strong winds. If you notice a pine tree that remains rigid and inflexible, it’s advisable to conduct a closer inspection. - Avoid making significant alterations to your tree’s wind load just before a weather event.
Trees acclimate to their surroundings, and sudden changes can disrupt this balance. If you remove all trees from your property except for one just before a major weather event, that lone tree may become more vulnerable to failure. It’s essential to consider the impact of modifications on your tree’s ability to withstand changing conditions.
- Ensure your trees receive proper care during the scorching summer months preceding hurricane season.
By mulching and watering them during the dry season, your trees become better equipped to handle the saturated soils that come with heavy rainfall in the rainy season. - Prioritize the removal of dead or dying branches before storms strike.
Dead branches are prone to falling, especially in severe weather conditions. Addressing them proactively reduces the risk of them causing damage to your property, such as falling on your roof, fence, or car. - Be prepared by knowing your insurance information and the appropriate contacts in case of emergencies.
During emergencies, your home may become inaccessible or your documents unavailable. In such situations, your first call should be to your insurance company. They can provide guidance on how to handle the situation and often recommend reputable tree care companies. - Act promptly and avoid delaying.
Tree service providers are in high demand during and after storms. The sooner you make the call, the quicker the response can be. Keep in mind that each company has a limited capacity for work, so if you require assistance, it’s advisable not to wait. After consulting with your insurance provider, your second call should be to a certified arborist. - Lastly, nurture your trees with regular care.
We strongly recommend scheduling an annual visit from your arborist. With a consistent appointment, your arborist can identify potential issues that may have gone unnoticed, recommend plant healthcare treatments, prevent future problems, and ensure your trees remain vibrant and healthy.
As you watch the weather forecast, we hope that you and your family stay safe and healthy during the storm season. In the unfortunate event that your property sustains damage, please know that we are here to provide assistance.