Storm Preparedness for Trees in Lexington

Tree work during a storm requires special skills, equipment and a whole lot of dogged determination. It’s dangerous, stressful and often rewarding work for those who do it.

Trimming trees before a storm is important to keep them safe and healthy. It’s also a good idea to remove debris from your property that could block or damage doors or windows during severe weather.

1. Trim Your Trees

During high wind events, tree limbs can fall and damage property or become dangerous projectiles that injure people or cause vehicle or structure damage. Keeping up with routine trimming helps prevent such problems.

Regular pruning and trimming improves tree health by removing diseased, dead, or overhanging branches, which frees up resources for growth and enhances the beauty of your landscape. It also allows sunlight and air to reach lower parts of the canopy more effectively.

If you have trees that are in poor condition, consult a tree service professional  for pruning or removal to prevent damage during storms. Trees can be damaged by lightning, high winds or even snow and ice accumulation. An arborist can assess a tree’s overall strength and health to help you make the right decision for its future. if you need help visit on:  https://lexingtonkytree.com/services/tree-removal/

2. Prepare Your Yard

Trees are a big investment in your yard. Taking steps to keep them healthy and strong is the best way to avoid structural damage during severe weather.

A layer of leaves, twigs and organic debris provides a cozy blanket for roots to help them control temperature and maintain moisture levels. When homeowners rake and remove this layer, the roots are left vulnerable to temperature and moisture changes that can cause root rot. Add 3-6 inches of mulch around your trees to provide this protective layer.

The Town’s Environmental Department and the Lexington Tree Committee are dedicated to the protection, planting and continued care of Lexington’s green spaces. They work with the Town to update the town’s tree bylaw, facilitate spring and fall setback tree planting, assist in street locations for new trees and host Arbor Day celebrations.

We all want to enjoy the beauty of a lush landscape, but we also must be prepared for severe storms. Check out our tips to help your yard be more resilient.

3. Prepare Your Home

As the weather forecast gets bleaker, we’re reminding homeowners to prepare their properties and families for possible storm damage, power outages, flooding and other dangers. Make sure you have at least a week’s supply of food, water and other essentials, back up data on your computer and cell phone and have a flashlight and battery charger. A hand-crank or battery-powered radio is also good to have on hand so you can stay updated with the latest news during a storm.

If you live on low-lying ground or in a mobile home, get your family prepared to evacuate if necessary and strictly follow evacuation routes. If you are indoors during a storm, stay away from windows, skylights and glass doors, and find a safe spot on the lowest level of your home or in an interior room. Secure any outdoor objects that could become projectiles during high winds, including patio furniture, trash cans, toys and more.

4. Prepare Your Vehicles

Severe weather can damage or destroy cars, trucks and other vehicles. Keep your vehicle parked in a clear area where it will not block driveways, roads or be hit by debris. Never drive through water, as even six inches of fast moving water can sweep your vehicle away.

Remember that healthy trees adjust faster to changes in their environment and may be more resilient to storm damage. It is also important to plant species that do well in our climate zone.

Private property owners within the city’s historic district that want to remove a tree should check with the Office of Historic Preservation and the Lexington Tree Board to be sure they are following proper procedures. A free workshop on managing urban canopies for disaster preparedness is planned for January 18 at McConnell Springs Park. For more information, click here. The workshop is funded in part by a Kentucky Urban and Community Forestry Assistance Grant from the State of Kentucky.