From intense winter storms and freezing temperatures to heavy rainfall and record-breaking heat, the Pacific Northwest has experienced it all. In fact, a 2017 report even named it the most extreme weather region in the U.S.
If you’re in Vancouver, WA, or anywhere in the region, proactive tree care is essential to ensure both the safety of your home and the health of your trees.
Here’s how to prepare your trees for the worst storms and minimize damage.
Regular Pruning for Storm Readiness
One of the most effective ways to protect your trees from storm damage is by regularly pruning them. Overgrown branches are particularly susceptible to breaking during high winds. This doesn’t just pose risk to the tree itself, but falling branches can damage your home, cars, or even injure people.
What to Do
Our professional tree service in Vancouver, WA, can assess your trees and identify weak or overgrown branches. Removing these branches reduces the wind resistance of the tree, minimizing the chances of breakage. Make sure you schedule regular pruning—ideally before the stormy season begins. This will ensure your trees are well-shaped and prepared to handle high winds.
Check for Weak Branches and Diseased Trees
Weak or diseased branches are prime candidates for breakage during storms. The weight of heavy rain can further weaken them, making them a potential hazard. Inspect your trees for signs of disease, such as dead or brittle branches, discolored leaves, or fungus on the bark.
What to Do
If you spot any branches that look questionable, call a NW tree service to inspect them. Trees with weak structural integrity may need to be trimmed or, in severe cases, removed entirely to prevent them from becoming a danger during a storm. Removing diseased trees early can save you from major property damage and protect nearby healthy trees from being infected.
Ensure Trees Are Properly Anchored
Strong winds can cause shallow-rooted trees to topple over, especially if the soil is loose from heavy rain. Trees that are poorly anchored are far more likely to fall, posing a significant risk to your home and surrounding property.
What to Do
Inspect your trees to ensure they are securely anchored in the soil. You can also add mulch around the base of your trees to retain moisture and protect the roots. In some cases, professional bracing or cabling may be necessary for trees that are at risk of falling.
This is where a local tree service in Vancouver, WA can help. They can assess the tree’s root system and stability, advising whether additional support is needed. It’s especially important for larger, older trees that may have roots extending near driveways, sidewalks, or your home foundation.
Clear Debris Around Trees
Debris around the base of trees can cause serious problems during a storm. Loose objects, fallen leaves, and dead branches can become dangerous projectiles in high winds, damaging your property and the tree itself. Additionally, debris can clog drainage around the tree, leading to poor water absorption or soil erosion.
What to Do
Before a storm hits, take the time to clear debris from around your trees. Remove fallen branches, rake up dead leaves, and move any garden furniture or other loose items that could be thrown around in high winds. By clearing the area, you’re reducing the potential hazards and ensuring that your trees get the water they need without suffering from waterlogged soil.
Call in the Pros Before the Storm Hits
While DIY tree care can handle basic tasks like leaf clearing, it’s always best to call in the professionals for more complex tree maintenance. A local NW tree service can offer expert advice, prune your trees, and remove any trees that could pose a risk during a storm.
Storms can be unpredictable, but with the right care and preparation, you can reduce the chances of tree damage. Whether it’s pruning, bracing, or full tree removal, professionals will make sure your trees are ready to withstand the next big storm.
Protect Your Tress (and Your Home) from Storm Damage
Preparing your trees for heavy rain and wind in the Pacific Northwest is all about being proactive. Regular pruning, checking for weak branches, ensuring proper anchoring, clearing debris, and calling in a professional service when needed are all essential steps in storm tree damage prevention. By taking these precautions, you’ll protect your trees, home, and family from potential storm-related hazards.