Storm Season Tree Protection Guidelines

Introduction

Storm season in Las Vegas can hit trees harder than expected. With intense winds, sudden downpours, and drastic shifts in weather, even the healthiest tree can end up damaged if it hasn’t been properly prepared. Starting early before the weather turns gives homeowners the chance to reduce the risk of falling limbs or even complete uprooting.

Many people don’t think about tree issues until after a storm makes a mess. But taking time to check on your trees ahead of time and fix any weak points can save you from bigger headaches down the road. Here’s what you need to know as you get your property ready for storm season.

Understanding The Importance Of Tree Protection During Storm Season

Tree damage during a storm isn’t just about losing a few leaves or twigs. In severe storms, weak trees can snap or fall completely. This can lead to dangerous situations like downed power lines, blocked roads, damage to roofs, or even injuries.

In Las Vegas, high winds can show up quickly and unpredictably, making regular tree care a smart habit. Trees that haven’t been trimmed or checked in a while are more likely to have dead limbs or weak spots that break under pressure. Trees with overly thick canopies often catch more wind, making them more likely to topple. Limbs that hang over roofs or drives can easily snap and damage anything in their path.

Some of the biggest risks of unmaintained trees during storms include:

• Broken limbs damaging property
• Tree falls due to shallow or weak roots
• Trees interfering with power lines or roads
• Last-minute emergency tree removal costs

By addressing these issues well before the clouds roll in, you’re not just protecting your trees—you’re protecting your entire property and everyone on it.

Assessing Tree Health Before Storm Season

Before winds pick up, it’s important to know what shape your trees are in. Strong, healthy trees are less likely to fail under the weight and push of severe weather. A simple walk around your yard can give you a good idea of what needs work.

Look for any signs of concern, such as:

• Cracks or splits in trunks or major limbs
• Dead, dry, or hanging branches
• Leaves that look unhealthy compared to others on the same tree
• Roots lifting from the soil or signs of erosion near the base
• Fungal growth or damage on bark and leaves

Pay special attention to trees closest to important areas like your driveway, patio, or your home’s roofline. A tree that leans slightly to one side may seem stable, but violent wind can tip it further. Even smaller trees can cause damage if they’re unstable or in poor condition.

Younger trees should also be inspected. They may not have deep roots yet, and this puts them at risk of snapping or being easily uprooted during high winds.

Getting a professional arborist involved is a good idea if you’re unsure what to look for. Some tree health issues are easy to miss if you don’t know the signs.

Pruning And Trimming For Storm Readiness

Pruning and trimming are some of the best steps you can take to prep your trees for storm season. By removing weak or dead branches and shaping the canopy so wind can pass through more easily, you reduce the chance of damage.

Proper trimming:

• Boosts the tree’s natural structure
• Lightens heavy areas to prevent breakage
• Clears space around buildings, fences, and power lines
• Keeps limbs from growing too close to vehicles or walkways

Here are some practical pruning tips to help your trees stand up better to storms:

1. Cut back branches that hover over homes, cars, or power lines.
2. Remove limbs that are cracked, rotting, or showing signs of disease.
3. Thin inner branches to promote air circulation.
4. Trim any branches rubbing against each other to avoid wounds or wear marks.
5. Cut small limbs cleanly at their attachment points—don’t leave long nubs.

The best time to schedule pruning is late fall, before winter storms kick in. Trees slow their growth around this time, which allows small wounds from cuts to heal properly before colder weather. Ongoing pruning every couple of years helps keep trees balanced and strong.

Emergency Preparedness: What To Do During A Storm

When a storm hits, your main focus should be safety—not yardwork. Trees can become unpredictable in strong wind or heavy rain, even if they looked healthy beforehand.

Follow these simple safety tips once a storm begins:

• Stay inside and avoid windows near large trees
• Close blinds to help block broken glass if a branch strikes
• Move vehicles away from trees if possible before the storm
• Keep pets and children inside and away from tree-heavy areas
• Turn off outdoor electrical equipment if there’s a risk of falling branches

If you hear or see a tree fall during the storm, stay back. Don’t head outside until you’re sure the storm has passed. Trees under stress can shift or collapse hours later. Even limbs still attached could break off unexpectedly.

Having emergency tree removal services in mind ahead of time means you won’t be left scrambling in the middle of a crisis. Keep a contact you trust on hand so if something happens, you’re not guessing about who to call.

Post-Storm Actions And Emergency Tree Removal

After a storm clears, the next steps are just as important. It may be tempting to get out there and start cleanup right away, but it’s best to move carefully and stay alert.

Check for the following signs of damage from a safe distance:

• Large limbs that are hanging but didn’t fall
• Trees that are leaning or tilting
• Deep splits in the trunk or near the roots
• Ground pushed up or roots exposed near the base
• Branches tangled in wires or resting on roofs

If you spot anything that looks unsafe or unstable, don’t touch it. Trees may still fall or shift suddenly, even if they seem calm. Twisted branches can have hidden tension and snap without warning.

You can begin to clear out small debris like leaves or small twigs once it’s safe. Always wear gloves and watch out for sharp limbs or rough bark.

Emergency tree removal might be needed if a branch or whole tree has fallen, is blocking a path, or is threatening your structure. Every property is different, and older or top-heavy trees in Las Vegas are at a higher risk for storm-related uprooting. Getting professional help quickly keeps your property protected from extra damage and keeps you and your family safe from injury.

Planning for Healthier Trees All Year

Storm prep should go beyond just checking your trees once a year. Healthy trees hold up better not just during storm season, but during the high heat, dry spells, and wind events that can show up at any point in Las Vegas.

As the seasons change, take a few moments to notice if your trees are showing any of the following:

• Sections of bark peeling
• Discoloration or leaf drop out of season
• Unusual limb growth or dieback
• Root exposure or cracks near the base

Keeping your trees strong and upright year-round is a simple mix of attention and good care. Try to:

• Remove crowded or oversized limbs when needed
• Water correctly during dry stretches
• Use mulch around the base for insulation
• Fertilize based on species needs and local conditions

Healthy trees need upkeep to avoid slow decline, which often shows up through damage when high winds or storms arrive. With regular trimming and proper attention, trees are more likely to stay rooted, balanced, and ready to handle whatever comes next.

Protecting Your Trees This Storm Season

Proactive care is always easier—and safer—than emergency cleanup. If you live in Las Vegas and own trees, having a professional plan in place gives you peace of mind and year-round protection.

If storm season catches you off guard and you’re dealing with fallen limbs or a leaning tree, don’t wait for things to get worse. Learn more about emergency tree removal and how Mr. Tree can help keep your property safe and tidy with fast, reliable support.