Wind, rain, snow, and ice can change a tree in a matter of minutes. A tree that looked unchanged before a storm may have a broken limb, new crack, altered lean, or damage around its base afterward.

Property owners can notice many of these changes from the ground. The goal is not to diagnose the tree or approach dangerous branches. It is to identify visible warning signs, keep people away from questionable areas, and determine whether the tree may need professional attention.

Begin With Safety

Observe the tree from a safe distance. Do not stand under hanging branches, climb the tree, use a ladder, or attempt to pull down a damaged limb.

If a branch is touching or close to a utility line, stay away and contact the appropriate utility provider. Do not attempt to cut or move the branch yourself.

Keep children, pets, vehicles, and visitors away from the area beneath visibly damaged branches until the situation has been assessed.

Scan the Canopy From More Than One Angle

The canopy may show the first obvious signs of storm damage. Walk around the property only where it is safe and view the tree from several angles.

Look for:

• Freshly broken branches
• Limbs hanging at an unusual angle
• Branches resting on a roof, fence, or another tree
• Sections that suddenly appear thinner than the surrounding canopy
• Cracks where large limbs connect to the trunk
• Debris caught among branches
• Dead limbs that have shifted or partially detached

A damaged branch does not automatically mean the entire tree must be removed. When the concern is limited to individual limbs and the tree can remain, tree trimming may be the relevant service.

Look for Changes in the Trunk

Storm movement can expose or worsen trunk problems. From the ground, check for changes that were not present before the weather event.

Visible concerns can include:

• New cracks or splits
• Fresh areas of missing bark
• Open cavities
• Separation where the trunk divides
• Broken sections near major branch connections
• Areas that appear crushed, twisted, or newly exposed

The trunk supports the complete tree. Damage in this area may be more significant than a problem limited to one branch.

Check the Base and Surrounding Soil

The ground around a tree can reveal movement that is easy to overlook when attention is focused on the canopy.

Look from a safe position for:

• Soil lifting on one side of the tree
• New gaps between the trunk and surrounding ground
• Exposed or visibly damaged roots
• Cracks in the soil near the base
• Movement around the root area
• New leaning accompanied by disturbed soil

Do not dig around the roots or press on a leaning tree. Photograph visible changes from a distance so they can be compared or discussed during an assessment.

Notice Any Change in Lean

Some trees naturally grow at an angle. The important question is whether the lean is new or has increased.

A noticeable change after severe weather, especially when combined with soil movement, root changes, trunk cracking, or broken limbs, is a reason to keep away from the area and request an assessment.

Trimming cannot correct every stability problem. When damage or instability affects the complete tree, tree removal may need to be considered.

Check What Is Beneath and Beside the Tree

The tree’s surroundings affect the urgency and planning of any work. A damaged branch above an open part of the yard creates a different situation from one above a roof, driveway, walkway, vehicle, patio, or entrance.

Take note of:

• Buildings beneath or beside the canopy
• Driveways and frequently used walkways
• Fences, sheds, and landscaping
• Vehicles normally parked below the tree
• Gates or narrow spaces that may affect access

These details help explain the complete situation when requesting an estimate.

When Trimming May Be Appropriate

Trimming may be suitable when the tree can remain but selected branches are broken, dead, hanging, or interfering with the property.

The work should focus on the branches creating the concern. Removing excessive healthy growth after a storm can place additional stress on the tree and may not address the actual problem.

When Removal May Need to Be Considered

Removal may be considered when storm damage affects the complete tree rather than isolated limbs. Examples include a major new lean, extensive trunk failure, widespread canopy damage, significant root movement, or a combination of concerns affecting several parts of the tree.

No single observation provides the complete answer. The canopy, trunk, base, roots, location, and surrounding property should be considered together.

Document What You Can See

Clear photographs taken safely from the ground can help document changes. Include wide photos showing the entire tree and surrounding property, along with closer views taken only when they can be captured without approaching the damaged area.

When contacting a tree service, explain:

• When the storm occurred
• What changed afterward
• Which part of the tree concerns you
• What is located nearby
• Whether the area has limited access
• Whether branches, the entire tree, or a remaining stump are involved

For additional year-round guidance, review these tree service tips for Northern New Jersey property owners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I inspect a storm-damaged tree myself?

You can observe visible changes from a safe distance. Do not climb the tree, stand beneath hanging limbs, or approach branches near utility lines.

Does a broken branch mean the tree must be removed?

No. Damage limited to individual branches may be addressed through trimming. Removal may be considered when damage or instability affects the complete tree.

What should I do about a branch near a utility line?

Stay away from the branch and contact the appropriate utility provider. Do not attempt to cut, move, or pull it down.

Can storm damage be difficult to see?

Yes. Some changes are not obvious from one angle. Observe the tree safely from multiple positions and request an assessment if you notice a significant change or remain concerned.

Request Tree Service After a Storm

If a storm has left damaged branches or changed the condition of a tree on your Northern New Jersey property, Lodema Tree Service can help determine whether trimming or removal is the appropriate next step.

Call (973) 875-9875 or request a free estimate.