My tree is leaning after a storm. Is it safe?

A tree that has developed a new lean after a storm is a serious safety concern and should be evaluated by a certified arborist as soon as possible. A sudden lean is fundamentally different from a tree that has always grown at an angle.

Immediate danger signs — stay away and call a professional:

• Cracked or heaving soil on the side opposite the lean — this means roots are pulling out of the ground
• Exposed or broken roots visible at the base
• The tree is leaning toward a house, power line, road, or area where people walk
• You hear cracking or popping sounds from the trunk or root zone
• The lean is more than 15 degrees from vertical

Assessment factors:

1. Was the tree leaning before the storm? Trees that have always grown at an angle develop reaction wood and compensating root systems. A long-standing lean is much less concerning than a new one.
2. How large is the tree? A 6-inch diameter tree that can be staked back upright is very different from a 24-inch trunk.
3. Is the root plate intact? If the root ball has partially lifted but roots are still anchored on the high side, smaller trees can sometimes be saved by pulling them upright, backfilling, and staking for 1-2 growing seasons.
4. Is there trunk damage? Cracks, splits, or fiber separation in the trunk mean the structural integrity is compromised.

What NOT to do:

• Do not try to push or pull a large leaning tree back upright with a vehicle — this can cause it to snap or fall unpredictably
• Do not go under or near a leaning tree unnecessarily
• Do not wait to "see what happens" if the tree threatens a structure

For more on assessing storm-damaged trees, see Storm Damage to Trees, Tree Leaning, and Is My Tree Dangerous?.