Storms can cause sudden and serious tree damage across South East Queensland. High winds and heavy rainfall can break branches, damage trunks or leave trees unstable.
After a storm, the priority is keeping people away from damaged trees and identifying situations that need urgent professional attention.
Emergency tree services in Brisbane Southside can help assess damaged trees, address immediate hazards and determine whether pruning or complete removal is required.
Step 1: Prioritise Safety
After a storm, keep clear of damaged trees until you can determine whether there are immediate hazards. Trees and branches may remain unstable even after severe weather has passed.
Common post-storm hazards include:
- Hanging or broken branches
- Split or damaged trunks
- Partially uprooted or leaning trees
- Fallen trees resting on buildings or other structures
- Trees or branches in contact with powerlines
If a tree or branch is touching a powerline or has brought one down, keep well clear and contact the relevant electricity network provider or emergency authorities. Do not attempt to move or cut the tree yourself.
Step 2: Assess Visible Damage from a Safe Distance
From a safe location, look for obvious signs of damage such as a new or increased lean, cracks or splits in the trunk, exposed or disturbed roots, large broken branches or limbs resting on buildings, fences or other structures.
Not all damage will be obvious from the ground. If a large tree has been significantly affected by a storm or you are unsure about its stability, an arborist can assess its condition and recommend what should happen next.
Step 3: Contact Emergency Tree Services
Where a damaged tree or large branch presents an immediate risk, professional assistance may be required.
Depending on the damage and location, emergency tree work can involve removing broken or hanging branches, pruning damaged sections or removing the tree where it cannot be safely retained.
Trees close to buildings, fences, powerlines or other structures can require more complex removal methods to control damaged sections during the work.
Storm-damaged trees can behave unpredictably, so property owners should avoid attempting to cut or dismantle large damaged trees themselves.
When Is Pruning or Tree Removal Required After a Storm
Storm damage does not automatically mean a tree needs to be removed.
Where damage is limited to particular branches, pruning may be enough to remove damaged sections and allow the tree to be retained. An arborist will consider the extent of the damage, the tree’s overall structure and whether it can continue to be safely managed.
Where the trunk, major branches or root system have been significantly affected, complete removal may be recommended.
The appropriate approach depends on the condition of the individual tree and the risks around it.
Insurance Considerations After Storm Damage
If storm-damaged trees have also caused property damage, contact your insurer to find out what information they require before arranging non-urgent work.
Depending on the insurer and the circumstances, this may include photographs, quotes or information about the condition of the tree and the work required.
Where tree work is needed immediately to make an area safe, keep records and photographs where it is safe and practical to do so. Insurance requirements vary between policies and insurers, so follow the instructions provided by your insurer when making a claim.
Storm Damage in Commercial and Strata Properties
Storm-damaged trees can create particular problems on commercial and strata properties because affected areas may be used by residents, staff, customers or the public.
Damage around car parks, walkways, playgrounds, entrances and other frequently used areas should be identified and access restricted where necessary until the tree can be assessed.
For properties with multiple trees, a post-storm assessment can also help identify damage elsewhere on the site and prioritise any work that is required.
Reducing Future Storm Risks
Once immediate storm damage has been dealt with, it may be worth assessing other large or established trees on the property.
Depending on their condition, an arborist may recommend pruning, ongoing monitoring or other maintenance. Trees with existing defects or previous damage may require closer assessment.
Regular tree maintenance cannot prevent all storm damage, but it can help identify some problems before severe weather occurs.
Why Professional Emergency Tree Services Matter
Storm-damaged trees can be difficult to work on because branches, trunks and root systems may already be compromised.
Professional arborists can assess the condition of the tree and determine how damaged sections can be managed safely. Depending on the tree and site, this may involve rigging, sectional removal or specialised equipment.
For large or difficult trees near buildings and other structures, crane-assisted removal may also be considered where site conditions allow.
Getting Help After Storm Damage
Storm damage can leave trees and branches requiring urgent attention, particularly where buildings, access areas or other structures are affected.
Treesafe provides emergency tree services in Brisbane Southside, including assessment of storm-damaged trees, removal of damaged branches and complete tree removal where required.
If you are concerned about a storm-damaged tree, keep clear of the affected area and arrange an assessment.