Every year, hurricane season hits with strong winds, heavy rain, and unexpected damage. If you live in a storm-prone area like New Jersey, you know how important it is to get your home and yard ready — especially your trees.

 Calling a trusted storm damage tree service early can help prevent costly damage, protect your property, and keep your family safe when severe weather strikes.

Untrimmed trees, dead branches, or unstable roots can quickly become dangerous when a storm rolls in. That’s why smart homeowners call in professional tree services before the first hurricane warning even appears on the news. Let me walk you through how tree experts, especially certified arborists, help prepare properties to weather the storm safely and smartly.

Why Tree Preparation Matters Before a Hurricane

You might not think about your trees until they start shedding leaves in the fall—but during hurricane season, they can become one of your biggest risks.

Dead limbs can snap in strong winds and smash windows, crush cars, or damage roofs. Even healthy-looking trees can fall if their roots are shallow or if the soil is saturated from rain. All of this can cost thousands of dollars—or worse, put your family’s safety at risk.

Tree service companies like Midstate Tree don’t just trim branches—they help spot danger before it happens. That’s real peace of mind.

Key Tree Services for Hurricane Preparedness

1. Tree Inspections by Certified Arborists

Tree safety starts with a professional inspection. A certified arborist knows exactly what to look for. They’ll check:

• Root systems for signs of decay or instability
• Cracks in trunks or major limbs
• Hollow spots that weaken a tree’s core
• Trees leaning too far in one direction
• Branches hanging over roofs or power lines

These aren’t things most people notice—but they’re the first signs a tree might come down in a storm. A tree inspection is like a health check-up for your yard.

2. Tree Trimming and Pruning for Storm Readiness

One of the best things you can do before hurricane season is have your trees trimmed. This isn’t just about making them look nice. Trimming helps trees stand stronger in high winds by:

• Thinning the crown (top of the tree) to let wind pass through
• Cutting away deadwood that can snap and fly like spears
• Removing weak limbs that might crack under pressure
• Reshaping trees to grow in a healthier, more stable way

This kind of structural pruning can actually extend a tree’s life. It’s like physical therapy for trees—training them to stand tall and weather the storm.

3. Tree Removal of Dangerous Trees

Some trees can’t be saved. If a tree is dead, diseased, or too close to the house, removal might be the safest option. It’s better to take it down before a storm does it for you.

Removing a tree isn’t just cutting and hoping it falls the right way. Professionals use crane-assisted removal, roping systems, and special equipment to make sure nothing gets damaged in the process.

And in some cases, removing one tree can save others nearby from being pulled down with it during a hurricane.

4. Stump Grinding for Safety and Drainage

Stumps are more than just ugly—they can be dangerous. During a flood, a rotting stump can attract pests, grow mold, and make drainage worse. They can also become loose and float, damaging nearby areas.

Grinding a stump removes it below ground level, allowing for better landscaping, smoother mowing, and better yard drainage during heavy rains.

5. Emergency Storm Cleanup

Even with the best prep, storms are unpredictable. When the worst happens, you need a team ready to help—fast.

Storm cleanup crews clear downed trees, remove dangerous debris, and make sure the rest of your yard is safe. This kind of emergency response is critical after a hurricane. It keeps power lines clear, driveways open, and people safe.

Other Tree Services That Help With Hurricane Prep

Land Clearing

Got overgrown brush or too many trees close together? Clearing some of that space improves airflow and makes your landscape stronger during high winds.

Insect & Disease Management

Sick trees are weak trees. If a tree is fighting off beetles, fungus, or rot, it’s not going to hold up in a storm. Treating these problems early boosts a tree’s health and storm resistance.

Routine Tree Maintenance Plans

Storm prep isn’t just a once-a-year job. Regular checkups and maintenance keep your trees healthy year-round, making them ready for whatever nature throws your way.

FAQs About Hurricane Season & Tree Care

When should I schedule tree service before hurricane season?
 Start in early spring or late winter. Don’t wait until a storm is on the radar—by then, appointments may be booked.

How do I know if a tree is at risk of falling?
 Look for leaning trunks, mushrooms around the base, dead branches, or cracks in the bark. Better yet, get an arborist to inspect it.

Is pruning necessary for healthy trees?
 Yes! Even strong trees need help. Pruning improves their balance and lets wind move through them safely.

Does homeowners insurance cover hurricane tree damage?
 It depends on your policy. Many cover damage to your home, but not always the cost to remove fallen trees. It’s cheaper to prevent the damage in the first place.

What do I do if a tree falls during a storm?
 Stay safe and away from power lines. Call an emergency tree service like Midstate Tree immediately. They’re trained and equipped to handle storm damage.

Why Choose a Pro Like Midstate Tree

Not all tree companies are the same. Midstate Tree stands out because they:

• Are licensed and insured (NJTC#939369)
• Operate under a certified ISA Master Arborist
• Serve Warren and Hunterdon County with 24+ years of experience
• Offer 24/7 emergency help
• Guarantee to beat any competitor’s price by 10%

That’s the kind of team you want when a storm is heading your way.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait for the Storm

Prepping your trees before hurricane season isn’t just smart—it could save you thousands of dollars and prevent serious injuries. Trees are a beautiful part of your landscape, but when they’re neglected, they become major hazards.

Call a local, trusted tree service before the winds start picking up. A little prevention now can make a big difference later.

Need a professional opinion? Don’t wait. Request a Free Estimate from Midstate Tree today and get your property hurricane-ready.