After any significant storms, it’s easy to breathe a sigh of relief when you see your trees still standing. Everything looks fine. But just because a tree survived the storm doesn’t mean it’s in the clear. In fact, it may be seriously compromised, and the next storm, big or small, could bring it down.

Hidden Tree Damage Isn’t Always Visible

Storms put an enormous amount of stress on trees. High winds, saturated soil, and heavy rain can damage the root system, loosen the soil around the base, or cause internal cracks that aren’t visible from the ground. These types of injuries weaken the tree’s structural integrity over time, even if the damage isn’t obvious right away.

Cracks in major limbs, leaning trunks, or a suddenly thinning canopy could all be signs that the tree has been stressed. But even without those clues, a tree that took a beating during a storm should be carefully inspected.

What is “Delayed Failure” and Why is it Dangerous?

Trees don’t always fall during the storm that damages them. In many cases, they remain standing, until the next round of wind or rain pushes them past the breaking point. A weakened tree might seem stable in calm weather but collapse under far less pressure than the storm that originally injured it.

This “delayed failure” poses a serious risk to people, property, and nearby power lines. That’s why proactive assessment after a storm is so important.

What Should You Do If You Suspect A Tree Has Been Damaged By Storms?

If your property has trees that weathered the recent storm, it’s a smart move to have them inspected by a professional like the team at Artistic Tree & Landscape Creation. We can evaluate the tree for:

  • Hidden cracks and splits
  • Root instability or ground heaving
  • Signs of decay or fungus at the base
  • Structural imbalances that make the tree more likely to fall

Catching these issues early can give you time to act before a weakened tree becomes a hazard.

Prevention Is the Best Protection Against Storm Damaged Trees

Strong, healthy trees are more likely to withstand storms. Regular trimming, removal of dead branches, and monitoring for disease help build resilience. But even well-maintained trees can suffer storm damage, and ignoring the signs can turn a minor problem into a major one.

If you’re unsure about the health of your trees, especially after a storm, don’t take chances. Schedule a professional tree assessment and make sure your yard—and your home—are safe before the next storm rolls through.