How to Handle Tree Damage After a PNW Winter Storm

Winter storms in the Pacific Northwest can leave trees battered by heavy winds, rain, and snow. Assessing and addressing tree damage promptly is essential for safety and for maintaining the health of your landscape. Here’s a step-by-step guide to handle tree damage after a storm effectively:

Prioritize Safety First

The aftermath of a storm can be dangerous. Look for immediate hazards like fallen power lines tangled with trees, hanging branches, or unstable trees leaning dangerously. If any of these are present, stay away from the area and contact emergency services or a professional tree care company. Do not attempt to handle these situations yourself.

Assess the Damage

Once it’s safe to inspect, assess the extent of the damage. Minor issues like small broken branches can often be managed with proper pruning, but extensive damage (such as split trunks, uprooted trees, or large branches broken high in the canopy) will likely require professional attention.

Determine What Can Be Saved

Not all damaged trees need to be removed. Many can recover with proper care, especially if their root systems and main structural components are intact. Trees with less than 50% damage to their canopy often have a good chance of survival. However, if the trunk is severely split or more than half of the canopy is lost, the tree may not be salvageable.

Handle Minor Repairs Carefully

For smaller branches or limbs, you can use clean pruning tools to make cuts just outside the branch collar – the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk. Proper pruning prevents further injury and encourages healing. Avoid leaving stubs or making cuts flush with the trunk, as this can invite disease.

Call a Professional

For extensive damage, consult the experts. Our team has the expertise and equipment to safely remove hazardous limbs, assess structural integrity, and provide treatments to help salvage damaged trees. Professionals can also evaluate whether a tree poses a long-term risk and recommend removal if necessary.

Preventive Measures for the Future

To minimize future storm damage, consider proactive steps like regular pruning, removing deadwood, and selecting wind-resistant tree species for planting. Healthy, well-maintained trees are more likely to withstand the Pacific Northwest’s stormy winters.

By taking swift, informed action after a storm, you can ensure your trees’ safety and longevity while protecting your property and loved ones.

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