Severe weather can wreak havoc on your property, and trees often bear the brunt of that damage. While some storm-damaged trees can recover with proper care and pruning, others pose serious risks and may need to be removed entirely. Making the right call is essential for safety and preventing further property damage. After a major storm, it’s important to inspect your trees carefully and look for signs that removal might be necessary. At Tree Health, our local ISA-certified arborists can identify and safely remove storm-damaged trees that are posing safety risks. Here are four common signs that a storm-damaged tree should be removed.

The Tree Has a Severely Split Trunk

A tree’s trunk is its main structural support. If the trunk is split or cracked deeply during a storm, the tree is often beyond saving. Large vertical splits can compromise the tree’s stability and increase the risk of it falling. Even if the tree remains standing temporarily, a split trunk leaves it vulnerable to rot and disease, which can accelerate decline and increase the danger of collapse.

Major Limbs Have Broken Off

While small branches can usually be pruned away after a storm, the loss of large limbs can critically weaken a tree. When the majority of the crown has been damaged or broken off, the tree is more likely to struggle to generate enough energy to survive. In such cases, removing the tree is often the safest option.

The Tree Is Uprooted or Leaning Heavily

Strong winds and saturated soil can cause trees to tilt or be completely uprooted. A tree that is leaning significantly after a storm may have compromised roots, making it unstable and dangerous. Uprooted trees are especially hazardous because their root systems are no longer securely anchored in the soil. Even if the tree hasn’t fallen yet, the potential for future collapse makes removal necessary.

The Tree Is Close to Structures or Power Lines

Even if a tree appears salvageable, its location may make it too risky to keep. If a storm-damaged tree is leaning toward your home, garage, or power lines, the threat it poses often outweighs the benefits of trying to save it. In these cases, tree removal is the safest way to protect people and property from potential harm.

Tree Removal in Hicksville, NY

For expert tree removal in Hicksville, NY and the surrounding area, contact Tree Health at 516-268-3745. Feel free to give us a call to arrange an arborist estimate in Hicksville, NY!