April 28, 2026
In Athens, spring and summer storms can arrive quickly and with little warning. Strong winds, lightning, heavy rain and saturated soil all place stress on trees - especially those that may already have structural problems. While trees are uniquely adapted to withstand natural forces, weakened or compromised trees are more likely to fail during severe weather.
Reducing risk before storm season occurs starts by scheduling a tree inspection by one of our Certified Arborists. At New Urban Forestry, we believe proactive tree assessments help to identify potential hazards early to reduce the likelihood of failure and reduce risk to landscapes, homes and the people who live in them.
Athens and the surrounding areas regularly experience strong seasonal storms. Thunderstorms, hurricanes, and sudden wind events can impact trees in ways ranging from branch failure and major crown damage to whole tree failure. Trees that appear healthy from the outside may still have underlying problems that make them vulnerable when wind and rains intensify.
Because of this, pre-storm tree inspections are a critical part of responsible property management. Identifying weaknesses before severe weather arrives allows arborists to recommend targeted solutions that reduce the likelihood of failure.
Certified Arborists are trained to evaluate the overall health, structure, and stability of trees. Here are some key details in which our Arborists target when inspecting trees.
Structural Defects
Trees with weak branch attachments, conflicting stems, and overextended limbs are susceptible to failure during high winds. Structural pruning is effective in reducing the likelihood of failure, which in turn reduces risk.
Dead or Declining Limbs
Deadwood is oftentimes the first thing a tree sheds when exposed to high winds. Limbs that are in a state of decomposition can more easily break since its structural integrity has been compromised. Removing dead branches reduces risk and can also improve a tree’s appearance.
Signs of Decay or Disease
Internal decay may not always be obvious from ground level. However, our highly skilled Certified Arborist are trained to recognize cavities, decay and bark abnormalities. All of which are indicators that a tree’s structural integrity may be compromised.
Root Health and Stability
Roots are the foundation of a tree’s stability. Construction damage, compacted soil, confined root space and root rot can weaken a tree’s anchoring system and in turn limit the ability to withstand high winds. Also, saturated soils can lead to root failure in both vigorous trees and those with root health problems.
A tree inspection administered by a New Urban Forestry Certified Arborist can assist property owners to take preventative action rather than reacting after damage occurs. By identifying issues early, we can recommend services that help trees withstand severe weather.
Examples of preventative measures include:
Structural Pruning
Structural pruning can reduce excessive weight on oversized and overextended limbs that are vulnerable to failure in high winds.
Cabling and Bracing
Cables and braces are intended to provide supplemental support to trees that have multiple stems and narrow branch angles. They also limit branch and stem movement during wind, ice or snow events.
Plant Health Care Measures
Plant health care measures can improve a tree’s vigor and ability to provide resources to limit the spread of decay. This in turn improves structural integrity in trees and allows for resilience to withstand harsh weather events.
Storm damage often happens unexpectedly, but the likelihood of tree damage can be reduced. Trees that are maintained and cared for are far less susceptible to extreme weather events. Scheduling an inspection with one of our Certified Arborists before the peak storm season arrives offers peace of mind. It allows time to address concerns while weather conditions are favorable for tree work.
Athens’ beautiful tree canopy is one of the community’s greatest assets, but it also requires thoughtful care - especially as storm season approaches.
At New Urban Forestry, our certified arborists provide detailed tree inspections to help property owners identify potential hazards and develop proactive care plans. By evaluating tree health, structure, and stability, our goal is to help ensure that your trees are resilient during the next storm event.
If you’re interested in learning more about professional tree care services, contact New Urban Forestry to schedule a consultation with one of our friendly and highly skilled Certified Arborists. As always, Athens is better with trees and trees are better with New Urban Forestry.
