Why You Should Prune Before Summer Storms Hit
Summer storms in Idaho can arrive with little warning, bringing high winds, heavy rain, and lightning. While the storms may pass quickly, their impact on your trees can be significant. Dead or weakened branches become hazardous in these conditions, increasing the risk of property damage, personal injury, and emergency tree removal.
This article will explore why strategic tree pruning before storm season matters, how it can protect your home and landscape, and what certified arborists recommend to prepare trees in areas like Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and Caldwell.
The Risk Dead, Overextended, and Weak Branches Pose During Storms
Dead branches are brittle, structurally compromised, and more likely to break during wind gusts or heavy rainfall. Unlike healthy branches, they lack the moisture and flexibility that helps trees withstand weather stress. Overextended, and weak branches may be outside of the canopy, and will see higher wind loading than anything contained within the canopy profile. Weak branches may have unfavorable branch unions, and should be reduced to mitigate risk of failure at the deficiency. When left unaddressed, they can fall on:
Roofs, fences, and vehicles
Power lines and utility equipment
Outdoor play areas or walkways
These situations can lead to costly repairs and even pose serious safety threats. For businesses or homeowners, the liability and disruption caused by a preventable tree failure can be significant.
Benefits of Pruning Before Storm Season
Reduces Emergency Tree Removal Needs
By proactively removing dead or weakened branches, you dramatically reduce the chance of needing last-minute or emergency services during peak summer storms. Tree trimming ahead of time is safer, more cost-effective, and gives crews the ability to work under controlled conditions rather than responding to urgent, weather-related calls.
Improves Tree Structure and Stability
Storms test the structural integrity of trees. Pruning helps correct imbalances in canopy weight and encourages strong branch attachments. This makes trees less likely to split or uproot in high winds.
Protects People and Property
Removing or reducing high-risk limbs from overhangs and walkways protects your home and family. It also ensures falling limbs don’t damage neighbor’s property, shared fences, or nearby structures.
Enhances Visibility for Utility and Emergency Crews
Pruned trees are more accessible and visible during a post-storm inspection. This can help utility crews restore power faster and reduce confusion when assessing property damage.
When to Prune for Storm Preparedness
Late spring to early summer is the ideal time to prune for storm safety. This gives trees time to recover from cuts before the most intense weather sets in. Obviously avoid pruning during a storm, but also immediately after storms when limbs are unstable and dangerous to handle. If you're not sure how to best prune your trees, consult an ISA certified arborist.
The Role of Certified Arborists
ISA certified arborists bring the knowledge and training necessary to evaluate tree health, identify structural weaknesses, and prune safely. According to the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), pruning should promote long-term tree health and not remove more than 25% of a tree’s live crown in a single season. The 25% pruning dosage is not a “goal” percentage to strive for. The least amount of live branch reduction or removal done to a tree while making impactful cuts to promote strength and health is the goal.
An arborist can:
Conduct a pre-storm risk assessment
Recommend which trees need priority pruning
Identify hidden hazards not visible from the ground
Use climbing or aerial lift equipment safely
Homeowners are encouraged to avoid DIY pruning at heights or near power lines (for obvious safety reasons).
Tree Species in Idaho That Need Special Attention
Some trees are more prone to storm damage, especially if they have dense canopies or brittle wood. In the Treasure Valley, watch for these species:
Silver Maple (fast-growing but weak structure)
Siberian Elm (prone to large limb failure)
Willow (susceptible to wind damage and rot)
Boxelder (low branch strength)
Bradford OR Callery Pear (known for splitting)
Cherry Plum (Known for splitting)
‘Autumn Blaze’ Freeman Maple (Known for splitting)
Regular pruning is essential to mitigate risks in these species.
Preparing for Summer Storms Starts Now
The best way to avoid costly emergency tree removal is by taking action early. Pruning before summer storms hit is a simple, proactive step that can save thousands of dollars and prevent avoidable damage.
If you’re unsure where to begin, Double J Tree Services can help. We provide expert tree trimming in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, Kuna and the surrounding Treasure Valley. Our certified arborists offer honest evaluations and tailored pruning plans that prioritize safety and long-term tree health.