How Georgia Storms Put Stress on Trees Long Before They Fall

In Georgia, storms don't just cause visible damage like fallen limbs or uprooted trees—they often weaken trees weeks or even months before failure happens. Heavy rain saturates soil, reducing root stability and oxygen availability. Strong winds create micro-fractures inside trunks and limbs that aren't immediately noticeable. Lightning strikes can internally cook tree tissue while leaving bark mostly intact. Heat followed by sudden downpours creates rapid expansion and contraction stress. Over time, these factors quietly reduce a tree's structural integrity.

Key takeaway: Most storm-related tree failures start internally, not at the moment the tree falls.

At Twins Tree Services, we frequently inspect trees that "look fine" after storms but are already compromised. Georgia's clay-heavy soil makes this worse, as roots struggle to re-anchor after saturation. This is why post-storm evaluations matter just as much as emergency removals.

The Most Common Georgia Storm Types and Their Impact on Trees

Georgia experiences a mix of weather patterns, each affecting trees differently.

• Thunderstorms bring high winds and lightning, often snapping limbs or splitting trunks.
• Tropical systems and hurricanes saturate soil for days, causing entire trees to uproot.
• Ice storms add sudden weight, stressing branches not built for load-bearing.
• Straight-line winds push trees consistently in one direction, weakening root plates.
• Tornado remnants create unpredictable damage patterns, even miles from touchdown.

Storm type matters more than storm intensity. Understanding the type of storm helps us determine whether a tree needs pruning, cabling, or removal. Our Atlanta-area crews adjust inspection methods based on recent weather patterns, not just visible damage.

Warning Signs Your Tree Was Damaged by a Storm

After a storm passes, some warning signs are obvious, while others are subtle:

• Leaning more than before
• Fresh cracks in the trunk or at branch unions
• Soil lifting around the base
• Hanging or broken limbs
• Sudden leaf browning or drop

Safety Note: Never walk or park under a damaged tree—even if it's still standing.

Storm damage doesn't always mean immediate removal, but it does mean action is needed. Ignoring these signs is one of the most common reasons we're called for emergency service weeks later.

What To Do Immediately After a Storm Passes

When the storm clears, the next steps matter. Here's our recommended post-storm response:

1. Stay clear of trees near homes, driveways, or power lines
2. Visually inspect from a distance—do not climb or cut
3. Photograph damage for insurance documentation
4. Block off unsafe areas
5. Call a professional tree service for evaluation

Do not use a chainsaw without training. Many storm injuries happen after the weather, not during it.

At Twins Tree Services, we prioritize fast response while protecting nearby structures and people. Emergency doesn't mean rushed—it means controlled and safe.

Before vs. After: How Storm Damage Progresses Over Time

Before the storm: Trees appear stable, with full canopies and firm soil.

Immediately after: Minor limb loss, slight leaning, or surface cracks.

Weeks later: Internal decay accelerates, roots rot, and weight distribution changes.

Months later: Sudden failure during a mild wind or rain event.

Most tree failures occur well after the storm itself. This delayed progression is why proactive trimming or removal saves money and prevents damage.

Seasonal Checklist for Georgia Homeowners

Spring

• Inspect for winter storm damage
• Prune dead or cracked limbs

Summer

• Watch for drought stress after heavy storms
• Remove hazardous growth before hurricane season

Fall

• Thin canopies to reduce wind resistance
• Schedule preventative trimming

Winter

• Monitor for ice load damage
• Clear weakened trees near structures

Seasonal maintenance reduces emergency calls.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I call after a storm?
As soon as you notice damage—especially near structures.

Will insurance cover tree removal?
Often yes, if the tree damages insured property.

Can a leaning tree recover?
Sometimes, but only with professional evaluation.

Do you handle emergency calls?
Yes, including storm and wind damage situations.

When to Call Twins Tree Services

Call us if:

• A tree is leaning
• Limbs are hanging or cracked
• Roots are lifting
• You're unsure about tree safety

Don't wait for the next storm to finish the job. Twins Tree Services is proud to serve Atlanta and surrounding communities with reliable, professional tree care.