Tennessee's severe weather season brings high winds, heavy rain, and the occasional tornado that can leave your property covered in fallen trees and broken branches. After 20+ years of emergency storm response across Sumner County, Kerry Kirby and his crew have seen it all. Here is what you need to know about handling storm-damaged trees.
Safety First: What to Do Immediately
After a storm passes, your first priority is safety. Stay away from any downed trees, especially those near power lines. Even if a line looks inactive, it can still carry a lethal charge. Do not attempt to remove large branches or trees on your own — a partially fallen tree under tension can shift unexpectedly and cause serious injury.
If a tree has fallen on your home or is blocking a road, call your local emergency services first. Then call a professional tree care company for safe removal.
Assessing the Damage
Once it is safe to survey your property, look for these common types of storm damage:
- Uprooted trees: Trees completely toppled with root balls exposed. These need professional removal.
- Hanging branches: Broken branches caught in the canopy. These are particularly dangerous as they can fall without warning.
- Split trunks: Trees with major trunk splits may need to be removed entirely, depending on the extent of the damage.
- Leaning trees: A tree that has shifted significantly from its original position may have compromised roots and could fall in the next storm.
When to Call a Professional
Any storm damage involving large branches (over 4 inches in diameter), whole trees, proximity to structures or power lines, or damage requiring climbing or chainsaws should be handled by a professional tree care service. This is not the time for DIY work — the risks are simply too high.
What to Expect from Emergency Tree Service
At Kirby's Tree Care, our emergency storm response follows a proven process. We assess the situation for safety hazards, develop a removal plan, clear the most dangerous elements first, and then work through the remaining debris systematically. We leave your property clean and safe, often turning storm debris into quality firewood.
Preparing for the Next Storm
The best defense against storm damage is prevention. Regular tree maintenance — removing dead branches, thinning heavy canopies, and addressing trees with structural weaknesses — can significantly reduce the risk of storm damage. If you have trees you are concerned about, a professional assessment before storm season can save you significant time and expense later.
Need emergency storm cleanup or want to schedule a preventive assessment? Call Kirby's Tree Care at (615) 417-8825. We offer 24-hour emergency service and free estimates.