Hurricane Season in North Georgia: How to Protect Your Home from Tree Damage
Every year, Georgia homeowners brace for hurricane season. While our coastlines often take the brunt of the storms, inland areas, including North Georgia, still face the dangerous aftereffects of high winds, flash flooding, and saturated soil. One of the greatest risks to your home during these events? Trees that aren’t properly maintained.
When the remnants of Hurricane Helene shifted course last year, many in Georgia were caught off guard. What was expected to be mild rainfall turned into a destructive storm that toppled trees, blocked roads, and caused hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage. For many homeowners, the damage came from trees they thought were “healthy enough” until the wind proved otherwise.
The truth is simple: storm prep isn’t just about stocking supplies inside your home. It’s about making sure the trees outside don’t become a threat to what you value most.
Why Trees Are a Hidden Hurricane Hazard
Storms create the perfect conditions for tree failures. Heavy rain saturates the soil, loosening root systems. High winds push against weakened trunks or heavy canopies. Even trees that appear healthy can become unstable if their structure is compromised.
Here’s why unchecked trees are risky during hurricane season:
Saturated Soil Weakens Roots – Even a strong tree can uproot when the ground turns soft.
Crossing or Overloaded Limbs Split in High Winds – Branches that rub against each other or grow too heavy are prone to breaking.
Decay and Fungal Growth – Rot inside the trunk or around the base is often invisible until a tree fails.
Leaning Trees Near Structures – A slight lean may not seem urgent, until strong winds send it crashing toward a roof, shed, or barn.
How to Protect Your Home Before the Next Storm
The best defense is proactive care. Here are the top steps to storm-proof your property:
1. Schedule a Professional Tree Assessment
Certified experts can spot hidden issues most homeowners miss. At LS Trees, our assessments include checking for cracks, hollow trunks, pest infestations, and root health. Catching these problems early can save you thousands in potential damage.
Earlier this summer, our team was called to a home in Milton, GA after a pine tree was struck by lightning. It split down the middle and leaned dangerously toward a barn with animals inside. Because the homeowner called immediately, we were able to remove the tree safely the same day, protecting both the animals and the structure.
2. Trim and Thin Tree Canopies
Overgrown branches act like sails in the wind. By trimming limbs and thinning the canopy, you reduce wind resistance and keep trees stable. This also prevents branches from snapping onto your home, driveway, or power lines.
3. Check Root Systems and Soil
After heavy rain, look for exposed or lifting roots, or soil heaving around the base of the tree. These are early signs of instability.
4. Remove Dead or Questionable Trees
It’s tough to say goodbye to a mature tree, but if it’s diseased, decaying, or dangerously leaning, removal is the safest choice. A falling tree can cost far more in damage than the price of safe removal.
5. Don’t Forget Stump Grinding
Old stumps may not seem dangerous, but they attract pests, weaken soil, and can interfere with safe replanting. Before hurricane season, it’s wise to grind down stumps to avoid creating weak spots in your yard.
What to Do After a Storm Hits
If a tree falls on your property after a storm:
Stay Safe – Avoid downed power lines or leaning trees.
Call LS Trees – We offer 24/7 emergency removal across North Georgia.
Document for Insurance – Take photos of damage before removal.
Recently on Lake Lanier, a storm brought down a large oak that smashed into the center of a dock. Our crew arrived within the hour, removed the tree, and cleared the area so the dock could be safely repaired. Quick action matters, not just for safety, but also for insurance claims.
Don’t Forget to Call 811 Before Digging or Stump Grinding
One of the most overlooked yet critical steps in storm prep is knowing what’s under your yard before any digging or stump grinding begins.
Utility lines for water, gas, electricity, and internet are often buried just a few inches below the surface. Hitting one during stump removal or root grinding can cause serious injury, widespread outages, or costly repairs. That’s why we always recommend calling 811, the national “Call Before You Dig” hotline. It’s a free service that sends professionals to mark the locations of underground utilities on your property.
By taking this step, you’re not only protecting your home and family, you’re also ensuring that your storm-prep tree work is done safely and responsibly. At LS Trees, we factor 811 into every stump grinding project, because peace of mind starts with safety.
FAQs About Hurricane Season and Tree Safety
Q: When should I schedule a tree inspection for hurricane prep?
A: The sooner, the better. Ideally before late summer when storms ramp up.
Q: How much does storm prep cost?
A: Assessments are free. Services like trimming, pruning, or removal depend on tree size and location, and usually less than storm damage repair.
Q: Will my insurance cover tree removal after a hurricane?
A: In many cases, yes, especially if a tree falls on your home or structures. Preventive work, however, is the homeowner’s responsibility.
Q: Can healthy trees really fall during storms?
A: Yes. Even strong trees can fail when soil is saturated or winds are extreme. Regular maintenance lowers this risk significantly.
Why Choose LS Trees for Storm Prep?
Certified Experts with 15+ Years of Experience
Fully Licensed and Insured for Your Protection
Family-Owned, Customer-Focused Service
Specialized Equipment for Complex Jobs
Available 24/7 for Emergency Storm Response
Your home, family, and property deserve more than guesswork when it comes to storm prep. With LS Trees, you get professional care designed to keep you safe - before, during, and after the storm.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Hurricane season doesn’t wait for you to be ready, and neither do falling trees. The best time to prepare is now.
📞 Call LS Trees today at (770) 616-6079 for your free tree assessment and storm-season prep. Mention this blog for $100 OFF your next service.