How to Spot and Deal with Storm-Damaged Trees

While the UK summer so far has served up more heatwaves than high winds, we all know the weather can turn quickly. In fact, strong summer storms often hit later in the season, especially after prolonged dry spells. And when they do, our trees can take a real battering.

From cracked limbs to dangerously hanging branches, storm-damaged trees can pose serious safety risks – not to mention hefty repair bills if left unchecked. So, what should you look out for after a bout of bad weather? And what action should you take if you spot something wrong?

Here’s what you need to know.

Spotting the signs of storm damage

Not all tree damage is obvious at first glance. Sometimes a tree can look perfectly fine from a distance but hide serious structural problems. After high winds or heavy rain, it’s worth doing a quick visual check, even if everything looks normal at first.

Here are some common signs to watch out for:

• Cracks or splits in the trunk or major branches
• Hanging, broken or partially detached limbs—these are often known as ‘widow-makers’ for a reason
• Leaning trees, or ones that suddenly seem off-balance
• Uprooted trees, including ones with raised or cracked soil around the base
• Bark wounds or missing branches
• Debris at the base of the tree, which could indicate snapped or weakened limbs higher up

Even small cracks or deadwood can develop into something more serious if ignored – so if in doubt, it is always worth asking a professional tree surgeon for advice.

Why it’s important to act quickly

It can be tempting to ignore minor damage and assume it will sort itself out. But trees, like any living thing, respond best to early care.

Leaving a damaged tree unchecked can lead to:

• Falling branches, which pose a danger to people, pets, cars and property
• Infection and disease, especially if wounds are left open and untreated
• Declining health, as the tree struggles to recover and redirect energy
• Costly removals, if the damage worsens and the tree becomes unstable

A quick assessment after bad weather can stop a small problem becoming a big (and expensive) one.

When to call in a professional tree surgeon

If you notice anything that looks worrying – or if you are unsure – it’s best to get a qualified tree surgeon to take a look.

You should always call a professional if:

• The tree is near buildings, roads or public paths
• The damage is high up or hard to assess from the ground
• The tree is leaning, uprooted, or has visible structural issues
• You’re unsure whether a branch or whole tree is safe to leave standing

A reputable tree surgeon will be able to advise whether the tree can be saved with pruning or cabling, or whether removal is the safest option.

It is also worth checking your insurance – some policies may require professional documentation following a storm-related incident.

Can the tree be saved?

The good news is that many trees can be rescued – even after quite severe storm damage. It all depends on the species, the age and health of the tree, and the extent of the damage.

A professional tree surgeon will look at:

• The location and depth of any cracks
• The amount of canopy lost
• Whether the tree is still structurally sound
• Signs of pests or decay that could affect recovery

In many cases, targeted tree pruning or selective limb removal can restore balance and help the tree recover. If the tree is too badly damaged or at risk of falling then tree removal might be necessary – but this is always a last resort.

How to prevent future storm damage?

You cannot stop a storm – but you can help your trees stand up to one.

Regular tree maintenance plays a big part in storm resilience. That includes:

• Regular tree maintenance plays a big part in storm resilience. That includes:
• Crown thinning to reduce wind resistance
• Removing deadwood and weak limbs
• Checking for disease or decay
• Annual tree inspections – especially for mature or large trees

Keeping your trees healthy, balanced and properly maintained means they are less likely to suffer damage when extreme weather does hit.

Worried about a tree? TH Trees Ltd can help.

While the weather might be calm now, it pays to stay one step ahead. If you’ve noticed anything unusual about your tree – or just want peace of mind – TH Trees Ltd can help.

Our experienced, qualified tree surgeons offer expert assessments, clear advice, and safe, professional solutions to storm damage and all aspects of tree care.

Contact us today to book an inspection or for personalised advice about your tree.

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