Are Your Trees Ready for the Next Storm in Omaha, NE?

Severe weather is a reality for homeowners in Nebraska. Strong winds, thunderstorms, tornadoes, hail, and heavy snow can put a lot of stress on trees and cause branches to break or entire trees to fall.

While you can't prevent every type of storm damage, regular tree care can help reduce some of the risks. Knowing what to look for before severe weather arrives is an important part of protecting your trees and your property.

Start by Looking for Weak Spots

A healthy-looking tree can still have structural problems that make it more vulnerable during strong winds. Take a close look at your trees for dead branches, cracks, decay, or branches with weak connections.

Trees with multiple main trunks or narrow branch angles can be more susceptible to breakage during storms. Some species, including willow, cottonwood, silver maple, and ornamental pear, are also more prone to storm damage.

Pay special attention to trees growing close to your home, driveway, fences, or power lines. A damaged branch in these areas can create a much bigger safety concern.

Proper Pruning Can Make a Difference

One of the best ways to prepare trees for severe weather is to maintain their structure before a storm arrives. Removing dead or damaged branches and addressing structural problems while they are still manageable can help reduce potential hazards.

However, more pruning is not always better. Excessive thinning or removing too much of the canopy can weaken a mature tree and may increase the risk of storm damage. Young trees should also receive proper structural pruning as they develop, helping them form stronger branch connections.

If a tree has large branches, significant cracks, or structural concerns, professional tree care is the safest option.

Protect the Roots, Too

Storm resistance isn't only about what happens above the ground. A tree with damaged, poorly developed, or unstable roots can be more likely to lean or fall during strong winds.

Avoid driving or parking heavy equipment beneath tree canopies, especially around the root zone. Soil compaction and construction activity can damage roots and reduce a tree's stability over time. Maintaining an appropriate mulched area around trees can also help protect the soil and support overall tree health.

After a major storm, check the area around the base of the tree for lifted soil or exposed roots. These can be signs that the root system has been affected.

Prepare Your Trees Before Severe Weather Arrives

Storm preparation should be part of regular tree maintenance rather than something you only think about after a storm. Regular inspections can help identify dead branches, weak attachments, decay, and other problems before they become bigger hazards.

Cisneros Tree Services provides professional tree care in Omaha, NE, including tree inspections, pruning, trimming, and removal when necessary. If you're concerned about a tree on your property, having it evaluated before the next major storm can help you better understand its condition and what maintenance may be needed.