Storm-damaged trees in Geelong after severe summer weather

Severe summer weather can place enormous pressure on trees, particularly mature trees with large canopies, weakened limbs or previous damage.

That risk was highlighted on 13 December 2025 when a severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula. Damaging winds, large hail and heavy rainfall were among the potential hazards.

For property owners, the important question after a storm is not simply whether a tree has fallen. It is whether the weather has left a tree or branch unsafe.

A damaged tree can look relatively normal from the ground while cracked branches, weakened unions or movement around the root system create a potential hazard.

What should you check after a storm?

The most obvious signs of storm damage are fallen trees and broken branches.

There are also less obvious warning signs worth checking.

Look for branches that are hanging unusually, fresh cracks in larger limbs, bark that has split away from the trunk, sections of the canopy that have shifted and trees that appear to be leaning differently than before the storm.

Strong winds can partially fracture a branch without bringing it down completely. The branch may remain caught in the canopy until another gust of wind causes it to fall.

If a large branch is hanging above a driveway, footpath, home, shed or outdoor area, it should be assessed rather than ignored.

Heavy rain can affect tree stability

Wind is not the only concern during severe weather.

Heavy rainfall can saturate the ground around a tree’s roots. When wet soil is combined with strong wind, the tree can move within the ground and become less stable.

Signs can include lifting soil around the base of the tree, exposed roots or a noticeable change in the tree’s angle.

This is particularly important with larger established trees because the weight and size of the canopy can place considerable force on a compromised root system.

If you are concerned that a tree has moved after a storm, call an arborist before attempting any work yourself.

Mature trees need professional assessment

Established areas around Geelong contain a wide variety of mature trees, including large eucalypts and other species with substantial canopies.

These trees can develop heavy limbs that may be affected by strong winds, previous pruning, age or structural weaknesses.

That does not mean a storm-damaged tree automatically needs to be removed.

A qualified arborist can assess the tree, identify the damaged section and determine whether pruning, branch removal or complete tree removal is the safest option.

B&B Tree Services assesses storm-damaged trees and provides professional advice based on the condition of the individual tree.

Do not attempt to remove large damaged branches yourself

A damaged branch can behave unpredictably.

Branches may be under considerable tension or caught against other sections of the tree. Cutting the wrong section can cause the branch to move suddenly or fall in an unexpected direction.

The risk increases further when trees are close to homes, fences, vehicles or powerlines.

If a tree or branch has fallen onto powerlines, stay well clear and treat the powerlines as live.

For other serious storm damage, B&B Tree Services provides a 24-hour emergency storm damage tree removal service.

Can tree maintenance reduce storm damage?

Not every storm-related tree problem can be prevented, but ongoing tree maintenance can reduce some risks.

Dead branches can be removed before they fall. Poorly structured limbs can be assessed, and selective pruning may reduce excessive weight within parts of the canopy.

A professional arborist can also identify warning signs that may not be obvious to the property owner.

The aim is not to over-prune the tree. Good tree care should maintain the health and natural structure of the tree while reducing identified risks.

Concerned about a tree after severe weather?

If a tree has changed after strong winds or heavy rain, it is better to have it checked than wait for the next storm to find out whether it is safe.

B&B Tree Services has more than 20 years of horticultural experience and provides professional arborist services throughout Geelong and surrounding areas.

If you have a fallen tree, damaged branch or a tree that no longer looks stable, contact B&B Tree Services or call on 0414 244 666.

A quick inspection can determine whether the tree needs immediate attention or whether it can be safely retained.