Trees make your property more beautiful and habitable. Sadly, they can fall when a strong storm strikes, which is common in Land O’ Lakes, FL. That means your safety and that of your property will be at risk.
You can minimize the dangers by knowing the direction of the tree’s fall and taking the correct safety measures: moving cars, protecting outdoor furniture, or cutting the tree. This begs the question, which way will a tree fall in a storm?
A trusted provider of tree services in Land O’ Lakes, FL, draws on their experience to explain the factors that determine the direction a tree may fall in a storm.
The Leaning Angle of the Tree
If you want to know which way your tree might fall during a storm, first look at its natural lean. Trees tend to grow in the direction of a source of light. This process causes your tree’s trunk to develop an inclination.
You can detect this natural lean more easily in a larger and more established tree. Then you’ll have an idea of the direction the tree is most likely to fall when hit by strong winds in a storm.
The Direction of The Wind
Which way will a tree fall in a storm? The wind direction can also help you determine this. Your weak tree will normally fall in the opposite direction of the prevailing wind. That’s because the pressure from the wind causes the tree to lean toward the wind.
As the force grows stronger, your tree won’t be able to resist any longer. In the end, it’ll fall in the opposite direction.
Natural Weak Points
Knowing your tree’s weak points can help you tell where it may land upon falling during a storm. You can examine the tree’s bark for wounds caused by animals and insects. Such damage can lead to trunk weakness which makes your tree more prone to falling under heavy winds.
Suppose you notice structural issues like large dead sections. Maybe there’s too much foliage at the top, increasing canopy weight. You should have the tree removed before a storm arrives in such situations.
Tree Species
Different tree species on your property will have varying physical attributes that can influence which way they fall during storms.
Some species tend to lean toward a specific direction, which may affect which way they fall. Suppose your tree naturally grows towards the east. You should expect it to fall towards the west when a storm strikes.
Root Stability
The strength of your tree’s root system plays a role in determining how it falls. If your tree has a deep, extensive root system, the chances are that it can withstand strong winds. It won’t fall easily in a storm.
Now imagine your tree has a shallow or damaged root system. Winds can uproot it with minimal effort and can fall in any direction.
Nearby Obstructions
Obstacles surrounding your tree can also impact its falling direction. Nearby structures or other trees can act as barriers and make your tree fall in a different direction. Such obstructions can even prevent the tree from falling during storms.
Contact Your Local Tree Experts for Assistance
Which way will a tree fall in a storm? Seek help from a certified arborist. An expert will check issues like your tree’s lean and soil saturation to give you informed advice.
Arborist Aboard is your trusted local arborist in Land O’ Lakes, FL. We offer various services, including:
- Tree Removal
- Tree Trimming and Pruning
- Arborist Consultation
Call us today at (813) 920-4410 for a free estimate or to learn the symptoms of pine tree pests in Land O’ Lakes, FL.
