Tree Surgeon in Derbyshire: Post-Storm Tree Safety Guide
After the Storm: 5 Common Tree Issues Derbyshire Homeowners Should Watch For
Derbyshire is famous for its stunning landscapes, from the rugged High Peak to the rolling Derbyshire Dales. But our unique geography also makes our trees particularly vulnerable to the fierce Atlantic storms we’ve seen recently.
Whether you’re in Chesterfield, Matlock, or Ashbourne, a heavy storm can leave behind more than just a few fallen leaves. Often, the most dangerous damage is the kind you can’t see immediately.
As local Derbyshire tree surgeons, we’ve put together this guide to help you spot the warning signs and keep your property safe.
1. The "Hanger": Precarious Broken Branches
The most common post-storm issue is the “hanger”—a large limb that has snapped but is still caught in the canopy.
The Risk: These can fall days or even weeks after the storm, often without warning.
What to look for: Look up! Search for branches that are brown, leafless, or resting at an unnatural angle against other limbs.
2. Ash Dieback & Brittle Limbs
Derbyshire has a high population of Ash trees, which are currently facing a massive threat from Ash Dieback. Recent storms have accelerated the failure of these trees.
The Risk: Infected Ash trees become incredibly brittle. Even moderate winds can cause them to shatter or drop heavy limbs.
Local Note: The Derbyshire County Council has recently prioritised the removal of high-risk Ash trees near roads. If you have an Ash tree on your private land, the liability for any damage it causes rests with you.
3. Root Heave and Subtle Leaning
A tree doesn’t have to fall over to be “uprooted.” Root heave occurs when the wind’s force partially lifts the root plate.
What to look for: Check the ground at the base of your tree. Look for “lifting” soil, fresh cracks in the earth, or exposed roots that weren’t there before.
The Warning Sign: If your tree is suddenly leaning more than it was last week, it is a structural emergency.
4. Splitting "Co-Dominant" Stems
Many of our local Oaks and Beeches have “co-dominant stems”—where the trunk forks into two or more main uprights.
The Issue: Storm winds act like a wedge, forcing these stems apart.
What to look for: Look for a vertical crack where the two stems meet. If you see sawdust or “oozing” liquid from the crack, the tree’s structural integrity is compromised.
5. Saturated Soil & "Windthrow"
In areas like the Peak District, heavy rain often accompanies our storms. Saturated soil loses its “grip” on tree roots, leading to windthrow (where the entire tree is blown over).
The Risk: Trees in waterlogged gardens are at much higher risk during the second or third storm of a season.
Post-Storm Safety Checklist for Derbyshire Homeowners
If a storm has just passed, follow these steps before heading out with a chainsaw:
Keep Your Distance: Never stand directly under a damaged canopy.
Check Power Lines: If a tree is touching or leaning near overhead lines, do not approach. Call 105 immediately.
Identify High-Risk Species: Pay extra attention to Ash, Silver Birch, and Horse Chestnut, which are more prone to storm failure.
Photograph the Damage: This is essential for insurance claims. Take wide shots and close-ups from a safe distance.
Do I Need a Professional Tree Surgeon?
While you can clear small twigs yourself, you should call a qualified arborist if:
The tree is leaning or has a split trunk.
Branches are hung up high in the canopy.
The tree is near a public footpath or road (to ensure you meet your legal Duty of Care).
Worried about a tree on your property?
Don’t wait for the next storm to turn a “concern” into a “catastrophe.” We provide emergency tree surgery across Derbyshire and the Peak District.
Kraken Arb - 07340 998709
Your Trusted Derbyshire Tree Care Specialists