Storm season in Powder Springs brings high winds, heavy rain, and frequent power outages. One of the biggest hazards during these storms is falling tree limbs. Dead or weak branches are the first to break under pressure. If left alone, they can damage homes, cars, fences, and power lines.
According to the National Storm Damage Center, falling trees and limbs cause over $1 billion in property damage across the United States each year. In Georgia, this risk increases between June and November due to storm activity from the Gulf and Atlantic. Powder Springs, located in Cobb County, regularly experiences strong summer storms that test the strength of local trees.
Luis Perez, owner of Vilchis Tree Services Pro of Powder Springs, sees the damage first-hand. “Every year, we get calls after a storm knocks down limbs. Most of those limbs were dead or cracked long before the storm hit. If they had been removed earlier, the damage wouldn’t have happened.”
Dead limbs are dry, brittle, and often hollow. They lack the flexibility to withstand wind and are likely to snap under pressure. These branches may hang over homes, driveways, or sidewalks, posing a direct threat to people and property. Sometimes, they remain hidden in the canopy and only become visible once leaves fall or after a major break.
Luis explained, “You don’t always notice a dead limb right away. But once you know it’s there, you have to act fast. A strong gust is all it takes to bring it down.”
Dead limbs also weaken the overall structure of a tree. They attract pests like beetles and ants, which can spread to healthy parts of the tree. Fungi and rot often follow, increasing the risk of full tree failure.
Powder Springs receives around 50 inches of rain per year. When soil becomes saturated, tree roots lose grip, and the added weight of heavy limbs makes trees more likely to topple. Removing dead branches reduces this weight and helps trees stay upright during bad weather.
The best time to remove dead limbs is before the peak of storm season. An inspection by a trained professional can identify branches that are cracked, hollow, or decaying. Safe removal helps prevent emergency calls, injuries, and high repair costs.
Luis and his team offer free assessments to help homeowners catch these issues early. “We’d rather fix a small problem before it becomes a big one,” Luis said. “Removing a dead limb now is safer and cheaper than dealing with a broken roof or smashed car.”
Signs of dead limbs include:
Bark falling off
No leaves during growing season
Cracks or splits in the branch
Mushroom growth or fungus near the joint
Branches that sound hollow when tapped
If you see any of these signs, call a tree care expert. Do not try to remove large limbs on your own. Climbing or cutting without the right tools can lead to injury or more damage.
Tree safety is important for every property owner in Powder Springs. Many neighborhoods have older trees that need regular care. Whether in a front yard or along the street, dead limbs pose real risks once storms arrive.
By acting early, homeowners can protect their property and their neighbors. Luis summed it up simply: “One call before the storm is better than ten calls after it.”
To schedule a tree inspection or limb removal, contact Vilchis Tree Services Pro of Powder Springs. Preparing your trees before the next storm can save time, money, and stress. Clear the dead limbs now to avoid preventable damage later.