Emergency Tree Services: When to Call After a Storm
Storms can leave more than puddles and debris behind. High winds, heavy rain, ice, or lightning can seriously damage trees, sometimes in ways that aren’t immediately obvious. Knowing when to call emergency tree services after a storm can help prevent property damage, injuries, and costly repairs.
Below, we break down the most common post-storm tree emergencies and what to do next.
Why Storm-Damaged Trees Are Dangerous
After a storm, trees may look stable but actually be compromised. Cracked trunks, weakened roots, or hanging limbs can fail hours or even days later. These hazards can threaten:
- Homes and buildings
- Vehicles
- Power lines
- Sidewalks and driveways
- People and pets
If you’re unsure whether a tree is safe, it’s best to treat the situation as urgent.
Situations That Require Emergency Tree Services
Trees or Limbs on Power Lines
If a tree or branch is touching or tangled in power lines, do not approach it. This is a serious safety risk and requires immediate professional attention. Call your utility company first, then an emergency tree service experienced in working near power lines.
Fallen Trees on Homes or Vehicles
A tree that has fallen onto a structure or car is considered an emergency. Even if the damage appears minor, the added weight and shifting can cause further collapse. Emergency crews can safely remove the tree while minimizing additional damage.
Hanging or Broken Limbs
Storms often leave large limbs partially broken and suspended in the canopy. These “widowmakers” can fall without warning and should be removed as soon as possible by professionals with proper equipment.
Leaning or Uprooted Trees
If a tree is suddenly leaning or the soil around the base is lifted or cracked, its root system may be failing. These trees can topple over at any time and typically need immediate evaluation or removal.
Split or Cracked Trunks
- Vertical cracks or splits in the trunk weaken the tree’s structural integrity. After a storm, this damage can worsen quickly, making emergency removal the safest option.
- Correcting structural problems before they become serious safety hazards
Act Quickly After the Storm!
Storm-damaged trees don’t always fail immediately. Acting quickly can prevent a bad situation from getting worse. If your property was affected by a storm, contact Santos Brothers Tree Service today for fast, professional emergency tree care. Our experienced team is ready to assess the situation and keep your home and family safe. We proudly serve the Apex, Cary, Chapel Hill, Durham, and Raleigh, NC areas.
