After a storm passes, it’s easy to focus on cleanup and forget to look up. But recognizing storm-damaged trees signs is one of the most important things you can do to protect your property. Even trees that appear stable may have internal or structural damage that makes them unsafe.
At Perez Landscape and Trees LLC, we help Kansas City homeowners identify which trees can be saved and which need to be removed. If you’re unsure when to remove a tree in Kansas City after severe weather, this guide can help you spot the signs and take the right steps.
How Storms Weaken Trees and Create Hazards
Heavy winds, lightning, and saturated soil all play a role in damaging trees. Some trees lose limbs immediately, while others are left leaning or cracked but don’t fall right away. The risk lies in what you can’t always see: internal fractures, root shifts, and pressure points in the trunk.
Damage from storms may not cause immediate failure, but the next round of bad weather could finish the job. A weakened tree is far more likely to drop branches or topple entirely, especially if it’s already close to your home or utility lines. The safest approach is to have storm-damaged trees inspected as soon as possible—before things escalate.
Signs a Tree Was Damaged in a Storm
One of the clearest signs of storm damage is a sudden lean. If a tree that once stood straight is now angled or pulling away from the soil, the root system may have been disturbed. This type of movement weakens the tree’s anchor and can lead to collapse under even moderate stress.
Splintered limbs or large branches stripped from the trunk are another warning. Even if the tree is still upright, the loss of major limbs affects its balance and puts strain on the remaining structure. Cracks along the trunk or around the base may not be visible from a distance, but they often signal internal failure.
Another less obvious sign is bark separation or open wounds. These spots expose the tree to disease and rot, especially in humid conditions following a storm. Left untreated, they can spread quickly and compromise the entire tree’s health. If you’re unsure about what you’re seeing, a professional tree evaluation is your best move.
When to Remove a Tree in Kansas City After a Storm
While some storm-damaged trees can recover, others pose too much risk. If a tree has lost more than half of its canopy, it’s unlikely to survive long-term. Leaning trees, or those with major structural cracks, should be removed before the next storm season arrives.
In Kansas City, weather conditions can shift quickly. Snow in the winter and strong winds in spring and summer mean damaged trees rarely stay stable for long. If a tree is near your home, power lines, or in a high-traffic area of your yard, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Working with a tree removal expert ensures the job is done safely. Our team at Perez Landscape and Trees LLC can help determine whether trimming, bracing, or full removal is the right call based on the damage.
FAQs About Storm Damage and Tree Removal
Can storm-damaged trees heal on their own?
Minor damage may heal over time, especially if the tree is otherwise healthy. But large wounds, deep cracks, or lost limbs often lead to decay and instability.
What if the tree is leaning but hasn’t fallen?
That’s one of the most serious signs of failure. A leaning tree, especially after a storm, is unstable and should be assessed right away.
Who should I contact to remove storm-damaged trees?
Perez Landscape and Trees LLC offers emergency and scheduled tree removal services throughout Kansas City. Contact us today if you suspect storm damage and need expert advice on whether to remove a tree.
Act Fast When Trees Are Damaged by Storms
The signs of storm-damaged trees aren’t always obvious, but the risks are real. Whether it’s a sudden lean, broken branches, or trunk damage, it’s important to get a professional opinion before the situation worsens.
At Perez Landscape and Trees LLC, we provide tree removal and trimming services designed to keep Kansas City homeowners safe year-round. If you think your tree was damaged in a recent storm, we’re here to help.
Reach out today for a free estimate and peace of mind after the storm.