Look over your trees as soon as the storm has passed and it’s safe to be outside, then again over the following days and weeks. Trees with damage near the house, driveway, or power lines should get attention first.
The First Look
Once the wind has died down and there’s daylight, walk the property and look from a safe distance. Watch for wires before going near any tree. Note:
- Branches hanging loose in the canopy
- Split trunks or forks
- Fresh leans or lifted soil
- Branches on roofs, fences, or cars
If anything is touching power lines, stay back and call the utility. If a broken limb threatens your house or blocks access, emergency tree help may make more sense than waiting for a routine visit.
Keep this first look short and practical. The goal is to spot anything that needs attention soon, not to judge every tree on the property. Save the closer look for when the weather is calm and the ground is dry enough to walk safely.
A Follow-Up Look Over the Next Few Weeks
Some damage doesn’t show right away. A cracked branch may sag a little more each day. Soil around the roots may shift after more heavy rain. Leaves may wilt on a limb that was hurt but didn’t break.
A second walk-around after a week or two can catch these changes. Taking photos from the same spots each time makes them easier to compare.
After Freezes and Ice
Winter storms are their own case. Winter Storm Uri in February 2021 showed how hard Texas winters can be on trees. Texas A&M Forest Service advises patience after freeze damage, since it may not be clear which branches survived until new leaves come out. Another look in late spring can show what came back and what didn’t.
Hail deserves a check, too. It can strip leaves and bruise bark on thin branches, and the effects may be easier to see a few weeks later as the tree pushes out new growth.
Getting a Second Set of Eyes
A tree inspection service offers a practical visual review of storm-related concerns, such as hanging limbs, cracks, and root damage. It isn’t a formal risk assessment, but it can help sort out what needs work now, what can wait, and what should simply be watched.
After the next big storm, if you’re unsure about a tree near your home, call 817-587-4286 to talk through the next steps.
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