Storm-Damaged Trees? What to Do and How a Tree Surgeon Can Help
Storms in the UK can cause major damage to trees! Snapped branches, fallen trunks, and even uprooted trees that pose risks to people and property. If you’re dealing with storm-damaged trees in York and the surrounding areas, it’s important to act quickly and safely. In this guide, we’ll cover what to do after a storm and how a professional tree surgeon can help with everything from assessment to emergency removal.
What Causes Tree Damage During Storms?
Storm damage to trees is most commonly caused by:
High winds breaking branches or uprooting trees.
Heavy rain saturating the soil, loosening roots.
Snow and ice accumulating on branches, causing stress and snapping.
Lightning strikes damaging the trunk or setting trees on fire.
These conditions are increasingly common during UK winters and storms like Storm Ciarán or Storm Babet, which left thousands of trees damaged across the country.
Is It Safe to Handle a Storm-Damaged Tree Yourself?
In short: No.
Even if a fallen branch or damaged tree looks harmless, it can still be under tension, electrically compromised, or prone to further collapse. Attempting DIY tree work without the right tools or training can lead to serious injury or damage.
Instead, it’s safer and often more cost-effective to call a qualified tree surgeon.
What a Tree Surgeon Does After Storm Damage
A certified tree surgeon, like us at Gus Bishop Tree Services, can assess and safely manage storm-damaged trees using professional-grade equipment and techniques. Here's how we help:
1. Emergency Tree Removal Services
We provide 24/7 emergency callouts for hazardous trees blocking roads, threatening buildings, or endangering people. Fast response ensures your safety and minimises further damage.
2. Tree Risk Assessments
Before removing anything, we carry out a tree risk assessment to determine:
Structural stability
Root condition
Proximity to buildings and power lines
Potential for recovery
3. Storm Damage Pruning & Crown Reduction
Not all storm-damaged trees need to be cut down. We offer:
Deadwood removal
Crown thinning and reduction to balance remaining limbs
4. Stump Removal & Site Clearance
Once a fallen tree is removed, we can also offer:
Stump grinding
Root removal
Garden or site clearance
When Should You Call a Tree Surgeon After a Storm?
Call a tree surgeon immediately if:
A tree or branch is leaning dangerously
A tree has fallen on your home, fence, car, or power line
You're unsure whether a damaged tree is safe
Local & Qualified Help Across Yorkshire
We proudly offer storm-damage tree services in:
Wetherby and surrounding areas
We’re fully NPTC-qualified and insured to ensure your safety and the health of your trees.
Need Emergency Help With a Storm-Damaged Tree?
If you’re in York, and the surrounding areas, and dealing with a tree emergency, don’t wait. Contact Gus Bishop Tree Services for a quick, friendly and professional response.
Call us now on 07738429588
Email info@gusbishoptreeservices.co.uk