
The Ultimate Guide to Post-Storm Tree Assessment: When to Call Emergency Services
Wisconsin's unpredictable weather patterns can wreak havoc on our beautiful tree-lined properties. From sudden thunderstorms to ice storms and high winds, severe weather events can transform healthy trees into immediate safety hazards. At Extreme Tree Service, our 24-hour emergency service has responded to countless storm damage situations across South Central Wisconsin, and we want to help you understand when damaged trees require immediate professional attention.
Immediate Dangers: When to Call Emergency Tree Service Right Away
Some post-storm situations require immediate action, regardless of the time of day or night. Contact our emergency tree service immediately if you notice:
Trees or Large Branches on Structures
If a tree or substantial branch has fallen onto your home, garage, or other buildings, don't wait. Even if the damage appears minor, the structural integrity of both the building and the remaining tree could be compromised. Our emergency team can safely assess the situation and remove the hazard before additional damage occurs.
Hanging or Partially Fallen Branches
Branches that are cracked, split, or hanging precariously are extremely dangerous. These "widow makers" can fall without warning, potentially causing severe injury or property damage. Professional emergency tree service is essential for safely removing these hazards.
Trees Leaning Against Power Lines
Never attempt to address trees or branches in contact with power lines yourself. Contact your utility company first, then call our emergency service. We coordinate with utility companies to safely handle storm damage involving electrical hazards.
Blocked Access Routes
When fallen trees block your driveway, walkways, or emergency access routes, our 24-hour service can quickly clear these obstacles, restoring safe access to your property.
Assessing Storm Damage: What to Look For
After a storm passes, conduct a careful visual inspection of your trees from the ground. Look for these signs that indicate professional tree removal or tree trimming may be necessary:
Visible Structural Damage
Cracked or split trunks
Large branches hanging at unusual angles
Trees leaning significantly more than before the storm
Exposed root systems where soil has been washed away
Missing bark or deep gouges in the trunk
Crown Damage
Storm damage often affects the upper portion of trees. Signs include:
Broken or twisted branches throughout the canopy
Significant loss of foliage on one side of the tree
Branches rubbing against your roof or siding
New gaps in the canopy that expose previously protected areas
Root System Compromise
Soil mounding on one side of the tree base
Exposed roots that weren't visible before
Trees that appear to be lifting out of the ground
Cracks in the soil around the tree base
When Tree Pruning and Tree Trimming Can Save Damaged Trees
Not all storm damage requires tree removal. In many cases, proper tree pruning and tree trimming can restore damaged trees to health and safety:
Corrective Pruning After Storm Damage
Professional tree pruning can address:
Broken branches that create entry points for disease
Unbalanced canopies that affect tree stability
Crossing branches that developed after storm damage
Water sprouts that commonly appear after storm stress
Strategic Tree Trimming for Recovery
Careful tree trimming helps damaged trees recover by:
Removing weight from compromised branches
Improving air circulation to prevent disease
Redirecting the tree's energy toward healthy growth
Maintaining the tree's structural integrity during recovery
Safety First: What NOT to Do After Storm Damage
While assessing storm damage, avoid these dangerous mistakes:
Never touch or move downed power lines or branches near electrical equipment
Don't attempt to remove large branches or trees yourself
Avoid walking under damaged trees, even briefly
Don't use ladders near damaged trees
Never operate a chainsaw on storm-damaged trees without proper training
Why Professional Assessment Matters
At Extreme Tree Service, our certified arborists understand that storm damage isn't always immediately visible. Trees can suffer internal damage that weakens their structure without obvious external signs. Our professional assessment includes:
Evaluation of structural integrity using specialized equipment
Identification of hidden damage that could pose future risks
Assessment of whether damaged trees can be saved through pruning
Recommendations for tree removal when trees pose ongoing hazards
Our 24-Hour Emergency Response
When storm damage strikes, Extreme Tree Service is ready to respond. Our emergency service includes:
Immediate hazard assessment and removal
Professional equipment for safe tree removal in emergency situations
Coordination with utility companies when power lines are involved
Temporary stabilization of damaged trees when appropriate
Complete cleanup and debris removal
Planning Ahead: Preventing Future Storm Damage
While we can't control Wisconsin's weather, proper tree maintenance can reduce storm damage risks:
Regular tree pruning removes weak branches before storms
Professional tree trimming maintains proper tree structure
Routine inspections identify potential problems early
Strategic tree removal of declining trees prevents emergency situations
When to Schedule Follow-Up Services
Even after immediate hazards are addressed, storm-damaged trees often need additional care:
Follow-up tree pruning to promote healthy regrowth
Monitoring for delayed stress symptoms
Additional tree trimming as trees recover and new growth appears
Ongoing assessment of trees that suffered moderate damage
Contact Extreme Tree Service for Storm Damage Assessment
Don't take chances with storm-damaged trees. Our experienced team provides free estimates for storm damage cleanup and can quickly assess whether your trees need emergency attention, corrective pruning, or complete removal.
Available 24/7 for emergency situations, Extreme Tree Service combines state-of-the-art equipment with decades of experience to safely handle any storm damage situation. We're fully insured and committed to protecting your property while preserving your trees whenever possible.
If you're dealing with storm damage in South Central Wisconsin, contact Extreme Tree Service today. Whether you need immediate emergency tree service or want to schedule a comprehensive post-storm assessment, our team is ready to restore safety and beauty to your property.