After the Storm: Emergency Tree Care Steps for Edmonton Homeowners
Table of Contents
Introduction: When Nature Strikes, Safety Comes First
In Alberta, summer thunderstorms and early snowfalls can wreak havoc on trees. Strong winds, heavy snow, or freezing rain can cause limbs to crack, trunks to split, or entire trees to fall. As a homeowner in Edmonton, it’s important to know what to do right after the storm clears.
This guide offers step-by-step emergency tree care advice to keep your family safe, protect your property, and help your trees recover.
1. Prioritize Safety
Stay clear of hazards: If you see downed power lines, sparking wires, or trees leaning on structures, do not approach. Call 911 or your utility provider (Epcor, if you’re in Edmonton) immediately.
Assess from a distance: Even if a tree looks stable, it may be under tension or hiding cracks that could give way. Do a visual inspection from a safe spot.
2. Don't Attempt Dangerous DIY
It might be tempting to start sawing off broken branches yourself, but large limbs, hanging branches ("widow-makers"), or damaged trunks can shift unexpectedly.
Call a certified arborist instead. City Tree Service offers 24/7 emergency tree care in Edmonton. Our team is trained to assess and remove hazards safely using specialized equipment.
3. Evaluate the Damage (Without Touching Anything)
From a safe distance, take note of:
Any large broken limbs hanging or resting on other branches
Whether the trunk is split or the roots are lifting
If the tree is leaning more than before
Whether there is damage to nearby structures or vehicles
This information helps arborists triage the situation more effectively.
4. Understand What Can Be Saved
Not all storm-damaged trees need to be removed. In many cases:
Broken limbs can be pruned to encourage new growth.
Cabling or bracing can stabilize a partially damaged tree.
Trees with strong root systems and healthy trunks may bounce back with the right care.
City Tree Service will always recommend preservation when it’s safe and viable.
5. Preventative Pruning: Avoid Future Damage
Proper pruning and regular maintenance can reduce the risk of storm damage by:
Removing weak or crossing branches
Decreasing the length of long, leveraging branches.
Catching signs of disease or decay before they become dangerous
Ask about our maintenance packages to keep your trees resilient.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Call emergency services if anyone is injured or if the structure is unsafe. Then, contact a certified arborist and your insurance provider. Do not attempt to move the tree yourself.
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It depends on the extent and location of the damage. A professional assessment can determine whether the tree can be saved with proper pruning or support.
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Small broken twigs or limbs on the ground can be cleared, but avoid cutting anything still attached to the tree. Improper cuts can worsen the damage or create new hazards.
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We recommend against thinning the canopy, as this can actually increase the wind that is caught in the tree, like opening your car window while doing 120km/h on the highway. Instead, a reduction pruning is usually recommended to shorten the long branches that are most at risk of failure.
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It typically includes on-site hazard assessment, safe removal of fallen or hanging branches, and securing the area. It may also involve evaluating whether the tree can be saved.
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As soon as it is safe to do so. Storm-related tree hazards can escalate quickly. The sooner you call, the faster the response and the more options you may have for saving the tree.
Book a Free Emergency Assessment
If you’ve experienced storm damage or have concerns about your trees, call City Tree Service for a free emergency tree assessment. We’ll assess risks, recommend next steps, and help restore safety to your property.
📞 24/7 Emergency Line: 780 271 8733
📧 Email: info@citytree.ca
