In a place like Oklahoma City, where high winds, ice storms, and severe weather are part of life, damaged trees are a common sight after a big storm rolls through Nichols Hills, The Village, or even the wide-open spaces of Mustang. But here’s the critical question: Can you afford to ignore a damaged tree?
The short answer? No.
A damaged tree isn’t just an eyesore — it’s a liability. From falling limbs to root instability, ignoring a compromised tree can lead to property damage, personal injury, and costly emergency removal. Even trees that appear stable from the outside may be suffering from internal decay, disease, or structural stress.
The Hidden Risks of a Damaged Tree
Damaged trees may seem harmless at first glance, but the dangers they pose are often just beneath the surface. Here’s why it’s risky to delay action:
- Falling Branches Can Cause Injury or Damage
Heavy limbs or cracked branches—especially in large oaks, maples, or pines—can collapse without warning. These hazards threaten roofs, vehicles, sidewalks, and even passersby. - Internal Rot and Disease Spread Silently
A tree may look fine on the outside, but issues like root rot, fungal infestation, or trunk decomposition could already be compromising its stability. Damaged bark or stunted leaf growth are often signs that decay has set in. - Structural Instability Increases Over Time
Storms, wind gusts, or ice storms common in OKC can exploit existing weaknesses in the tree’s structure. A weakened root system or cracked crown increases the chances of total collapse. - Property and Legal Risks Multiply
A fallen tree can cause water damage, roof collapse, or even utility disruption. If the tree damages a neighbor’s property or causes injury, you could also face liability issues with your home insurance provider. - Wildlife Habitat Loss and Ecosystem Impact
Dead or damaged trees can also lead to habitat loss for local species. But leaving them too long increases pest activity and disease transmission to nearby healthy trees.
Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
If you notice any of these issues, your tree needs professional evaluation:
- Cracked, hanging, or dead branches
- Bark peeling or fungal growth on the trunk
- Tilting or exposed roots after heavy rain or drought
- Sparse foliage or early leaf drop
- Woodpecker damage or insect infestations
- Signs of lightning strike or fire damage
- Hollow sound when tapped or visible trunk cavities
Don’t wait until it’s too late—these are early warnings of structural failure or disease that need urgent tree care from a professional.
Why You Need a Certified Arborist
Tree damage isn’t always obvious. A certified arborist from Arbor Image Tree Care can conduct a full inspection and risk assessment to determine whether your tree needs pruning, cabling, or removal. Our team follows standards set by the International Society of Arboriculture, ensuring every evaluation considers species, trunk diameter, moisture levels, soil compaction, and environmental factors unique to Oklahoma’s climate.
Oklahoma City Weather Demands Tree Awareness
Here in Tornado Alley, trees face serious stress from unpredictable storms, strong winds, and drought swings. Areas near Lake Hefner, Scissortail Park, and downtown OKC often experience microbursts, lightning, and flash flooding—conditions that weaken trees from the inside out.
Ignoring these signs could mean disaster the next time a storm hits.
What to Do About a Damaged Tree
If your tree shows signs of damage, don’t delay. Here’s how we can help:
- Tree Removal Services: Safe, expert removal of trees that pose a hazard.
- Tree Trimming and Removal: Reduce weight, reshape the canopy, and restore health.
- Storm Damage Cleanup: Post-storm inspections and cleanup.
- Emergency Tree Services: 24/7 support when a tree poses an immediate threat.
Don’t Wait Until the Next Storm Hits
A damaged tree won’t heal on its own, and the longer you wait, the higher the risk to your home, your safety, and your wallet. If you live in Edmond, Moore, or anywhere across OKC, Arbor Image Tree Care is your go-to local team for expert evaluations and prompt service.
Contact our certified arborists today. Let’s keep your landscape safe, healthy, and storm-ready—one tree at a time.