While other parts of the country deal with tropical storms and heavy rainfall, the storms that damage trees the most in Minnesota involve snow and ice. Heavy snow bends branches until they crack, and ice coats crowns until the weight forces them to break. Winds that sweep through afterward push already weakened trees toward homes, vehicles, and power lines.
In this post, you’ll learn how to identify storm damage on trees, where to look for the most common problems, and when to call Northern Tree and Landscaping Service, LLC for tree removal services in Inver Grove Heights, MN.
Where To Look for Storm Damage on a Tree
Every part of a tree reacts to storm damage in its own way. The best way to catch problems is to start at the ground and work your way up. Looking at each section in order makes sure you don’t miss any structural instability indicators.
Root and Soil Problems
Strong winds, melting snow, and saturated ground weaken the soil that holds your tree in place. When pressure builds, roots shift underground and lose their grip on compacted earth. A root system assessment shows cracked or lifted dirt at the base, exposed roots that weren’t visible before, or a trunk leaning at an angle. Soil displacement detection also reveals mounded ground or gaps where the soil pulled away, clear signs that the tree lost stability underground.
Trunk Damage
Storms twist tree trunks violently, and winter ice or frost pushes those fractures deeper into the wood. These cracks often run along the bark or split between co-dominant stems, cutting through the tree’s main support system. After a storm, perform a trunk integrity inspection by walking around the trunk and checking for new openings, long vertical lines, or separated bark.
Branch and Crown Issues
The upper portion of a tree takes the brunt of snow and ice storms. Heavy buildup snaps large limbs, while wind strips away sections of the crown needed for photosynthesis. Broken or dangling branches hang dangerously overhead, and dead leaves that remain attached days later signal damage inside the branch. A crown damage evaluation measures how much foliage the tree loses and judges if recovery remains possible.
When To Call a Professional Arborist
Call for a professional arborist consultation when you see more than small twigs or leaves on the ground. Storms push roots out of the soil, split trunks with cracks, and strip crowns until branches hang loose. When you see exposed roots, shifting soil, hanging limbs, or a tree leaning toward your home, call right away.
Call Northern Tree and Landscaping Service, LLC for Tree Services in Inver Grove Heights, MN
Now that you know how to identify storm damage on trees, take action before the next round of severe weather. Northern Tree and Landscaping Service, LLC provides inspections, trimming, structural support, and full removals to keep your property safe. Call us today at 612-919-7322 for expert tree services in Inver Grove Heights.
Want more information on trees falling down and how to prevent it? Check out our other blog post.