Why Do Trees Topple in High Winds?

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Was your home damaged by high winds? Call SERVPRO of Norwich and Windhm County at 860-887-0447

Over the past few months, we at SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County have seen more damage to properties by falling trees than ever before.  What causes trees to go crashing down during storms?  The most common cause of trees falling over during high winds are soggy soil and a compromised root system.  When the soil is overly saturated the tree roots can loose their grip in the soil.  According to the Sacramento Tree Foundation poor planting techniques, infrastructure crowding and root damage affect root health and will negatively affect the strength of a tree over time.  Trees planted at the proper depth in an open area and in well-drained soil will have a much better chance to survive in high winds than trees that are planted in often wet soil or where roots are restricted or cut by roads, sidewalks, driveways and building foundations.