This Western Red Cedar had a major stem fall on the client’s house, with another side starting to fail as well. Regularly pruning and cabling can help keep your trees healthy and strong, while keeping you and your property safe.

Storms in Washington can wreak havoc on trees, leading to fallen limbs or even whole trees collapsing. Understanding the common reasons for downed trees can help homeowners take preventive measures to protect their property.

Tree damage can occur due to a variety of factors, including poor tree health, random accidents, and the following effects of Washington’s weather:

Ice and Snow

Ice and snow accumulation can add weight to tree limbs, straining the tree’s structure and causing cracks that weaken the tree. Water seeping into these cracks and freezing can further exacerbate the problem, potentially leading to the loosening of weakened limbs.

High Winds

Washington experiences storms with high winds throughout the year, but March and April present the most significant risk of windstorms. These strong winds can threaten damaged or weakened trees, making them more prone to losing limbs or toppling.

Severe Rainstorms

Heavy rainstorms can saturate the ground, leading to waterlogged soil and weakened tree roots. Severe rainstorms can easily uproot trees with shallow root systems or those in poor health. Additionally, strong winds accompanying rainstorms can further destabilize trees, increasing the risk of damage.

Lightning

Lightning strikes can cause severe damage to trees, often resulting in splitting or completely knocking down the tree. Trees act as natural lightning rods, attracting strikes during thunderstorms. Trees struck by lightning may catch fire or experience internal damage, compromising their structural integrity and increasing the risk of falling.

Sudden Branch Drop

Branches drop unexpectedly more often than you might think, particularly in hot, humid weather conditions. This happens more in certain trees, like oak or ash. Experts believe a build-up of humidity within the tree may cause this phenomenon. High winds during stormy seasons can also pose a risk to damaged or diseased trees, making them more prone to limb breakage or falling over.

Wood Decay or Disease

Compromised or decaying trees have a higher risk of requiring emergency service. Rot or disease can weaken the tree, causing once-healthy limbs to become brittle and prone to falling. Identifying and addressing these issues early can help prevent accidents and damage and reduce the risk of needing emergency tree service.

If the tree that has fallen was on your property, you are responsible for removing it. However, don’t just call the first lawn service or landscaping company you find. It’s important to call someone who is qualified for the job. Most general yard care professionals don’t have the same expert knowledge of trees as certified arborists do.

At Pacific Arboriculture, our arborists are certified by the ISA (International Society of Arboriculture), and adhere to their Best Management Practices as well as the American National Standard for Arboriculture Operations’ Z133 Safety requirements. When you call our team, you can trust your damaged tree removal job is not only getting done right, but safely.

Keep close tabs on your tree.

Regularly monitor your trees for any changes or signs of damage, such as limb breakage, rot, or disease. Keeping a watchful eye on your trees allows you to detect issues early on and seek the assistance of an arborist when needed.

Call an arborist for regular tree maintenance.

Even if your trees appear healthy, schedule regular maintenance with an arborist. Our expertise can help identify potential problems and ensure the health of your trees year-round, reducing the likelihood of needing emergency service.

Look Into Suspicious Limbs

If you notice tree limbs that pose a potential risk to your property, contact your arborist for evaluation. Addressing potentially hazardous limbs promptly can help protect your home and maintain its value. Trusting trained professionals to care for your trees can significantly improve their longevity and health.

Regular Pruning and Inspection

Regularly inspecting and pruning trees can help identify and address potential issues before they escalate. Trimming dead or weak branches can improve the tree’s overall health and reduce the risk of storm damage. Professional arborists can assess the tree’s condition and recommend necessary maintenance.

Soil Aeration and Drainage

Ensuring proper soil aeration and drainage can help prevent waterlogging and root rot, which can weaken tree roots. Proper soil management techniques, such as mulching and aerating, can improve soil health and promote strong root development, enhancing the tree’s stability.

Lightning Protection Systems

Installing lightning protection systems can help safeguard trees from lightning strikes. These systems redirect the electrical current from lightning strikes, reducing the risk of tree damage. Consulting with arborists or lightning protection specialists can help determine the best protection measures for your trees.