What To Do If a Tree Starts Leaning After a Storm

A storm causes a tree to lean dangerously. Certified arborists can assess and secure or remove the tree safely.

There’s a moment after a storm when you step outside and see something that stops you in your tracks: a tree that’s no longer standing straight. Maybe it’s tilting toward your house, hanging precariously over your driveway, or resting on your fence. In Lancaster, where sudden summer storms and strong desert winds are common, this kind of sight isn’t just inconvenient. It can be downright dangerous.

So what do you do when a tree starts leaning after a storm? Will it straighten out on its own? Should you wait and watch? Or is this the kind of situation that needs immediate action?

Let’s walk you through it, one careful step at a time.

Why Do Trees Lean After Storms?

Storms don’t just shake things up above ground. High winds, heavy rain, and shifting soil can destabilize a tree’s entire foundation.

Here are a few common reasons trees start leaning after storms in the Lancaster area:

• Soaked or loose soil: Lancaster’s dry climate means trees are used to a certain soil condition. When a sudden rainstorm hits, the soil can become waterlogged, weakening the grip of the roots and causing the tree to lean.

• Shallow or damaged roots: If a tree hasn’t developed a deep root system or if its roots have been damaged by prior droughts, digging, or compacted soil, it’s more vulnerable to toppling.

• Wind pressure: Strong gusts can push against the canopy, especially if the tree is tall, unbalanced, or full of leaves. If the wind lasts long enough, it can start to tip the tree permanently.

• Soil erosion or upheaval: After a storm, look at the base of the tree. If the soil is pushed up on one side or if you see roots sticking out where they weren’t before, the tree may have partially uprooted.

When Should You Worry?

Not every lean is a disaster waiting to happen. Some trees lean naturally over time, and others might straighten back up after the soil dries and settles. But certain signs should set off alarm bells, especially when safety is involved.

Watch for these warning signs:

• The base of the tree looks lifted or cracked

• The soil around the roots has heaved or shifted

• Roots are visibly exposed or torn

• Large cracks have appeared on the trunk

• The tree is leaning sharply toward a house, vehicle, sidewalk, or power line

• There was no previous lean, and now it’s suddenly noticeable

• Nearby trees of the same type are still upright

If any of these are true, you should treat the situation as urgent.

What To Do Right Away (And What Not To Do)

When you spot a leaning tree, your first instinct might be to grab a shovel or some rope. But pause right there. There’s a right way to handle this, and rushing in without a plan can lead to injury or even greater damage.

1. Keep Everyone Clear

The most important thing you can do is protect your people and property. Keep kids, pets, and vehicles away from the tree. Don’t let anyone hang a hammock or climb around it, even if it looks stable. Just because the tree hasn’t fallen yet doesn’t mean it won’t.

2. Don’t Try to Pull the Tree Upright

We know it’s tempting. A tree starts leaning, and your first thought is to just pull it back into place. But trying to fix it yourself can be dangerous. If the tree is heavy, the roots are compromised, or the trunk is cracked, you could cause it to fall completely or injure yourself in the process.

3. Call a Certified Arborist

This is where we come in. Our certified arborists at Tip Top Arborists are trained to assess tree stability, root health, and potential risks. We’ll inspect your tree thoroughly, from canopy to soil, and let you know if it can be saved or if removal is the safest route.

4. If Power Lines Are Involved, Back Away

If the tree is leaning near or on a power line, do not go near it. Don’t touch any branches, even if they look harmless. Instead, call your local utility company immediately and report the situation. Only trained crews should handle trees near electrical lines.

How We Handle Leaning Trees in Lancaster

Every tree and every yard is different, but our process follows a clear path to keep you safe and make smart decisions for your landscape.

Step 1: Inspection

We start by evaluating the tree from top to bottom. That includes looking for:

• Uprooting or soil disturbance

• Cracks in the trunk or major limbs

• Fungal growth or decay

• Canopy imbalance

• Damage from wind, pests, or disease

We also consider the tree species. For example, eucalyptus and some pine species are more prone to storm damage. Knowing what kind of tree you’re dealing with helps us determine its resilience.

Step 2: Stabilization (If Possible)

If the tree is still alive and stable enough, we might use bracing systems or support cables to secure it. This is especially common for younger trees or trees with a strong recovery chance.

We may also trim heavy limbs to rebalance the canopy and reduce the pressure that caused the lean in the first place.

Step 3: Safe Removal (If Needed)

If the tree is too damaged to save, we’ll recommend safe removal. This includes clearing it from your yard, grinding the stump if requested, and offering guidance on what to plant in its place. We’ll also help you choose trees that are better suited to Lancaster’s desert climate and soil.

How to Prevent Leaning Trees in the First Place

You can’t stop a storm, but you can set your trees up for success. These prevention tips go a long way toward keeping your trees upright and healthy year-round.

1. Plant Trees Correctly From the Start

Always plant at the proper depth. A tree planted too shallow may develop surface roots, making it unstable. Too deep, and the roots won’t breathe. Choose the right species for your space. Some trees grow large and wide and don’t belong near sidewalks or driveways.

2. Water and Mulch the Right Way

Consistent watering helps trees grow strong roots. Mulching around the base (but not against the trunk) keeps soil moisture even and protects roots from heat stress. Be mindful of overwatering, though. In Lancaster, trees often struggle with drought, but soggy soil after a sudden downpour can also be dangerous.

3. Inspect Trees After Each Storm

Make it a habit to walk your property after big storms. Look for soil movement, cracking, or exposed roots. The earlier you catch a problem, the easier it is to fix.

4. Prune with Purpose

Proper pruning reduces weight in the canopy and helps the tree handle wind more effectively. Avoid “topping” the tree, which can weaken it. Instead, rely on professional arborists for balanced, health-focused pruning.

5. Know Your Tree’s Growth Patterns

Some trees grow fast and top-heavy, while others develop slowly and stay compact. Understanding how your tree grows helps you anticipate potential risks before they become emergencies.

Why Lancaster Trees Are More Vulnerable

Our high desert climate puts extra stress on trees. Between strong Santa Ana winds, unpredictable rainfall, and summer heat waves, even healthy trees have to work hard to stay grounded.

Add in compacted soil from urban development and limited watering, and you’ve got a recipe for root instability. Many homeowners don’t realize their tree’s roots are under strain until a storm reveals the damage.

When to Call Tip Top Arborists

If your tree is leaning, call us before it falls. Our certified arborists serve Lancaster, Palmdale, and surrounding Antelope Valley communities. Whether your tree needs cabling, trimming, or removal, we’ll give you honest, practical advice based on decades of local experience.

We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners deal with storm-damaged trees, and we’re ready to help you too.

Final Thought: Leaning Trees Don’t Wait. Neither Should You.

A leaning tree may look peaceful one moment and become a hazard the next. Don’t leave it to chance. Call in the experts to protect your home, your safety, and your landscape.

Sometimes, the best way to weather the next storm is to take action after the last one.

Schedule a Tree Health Check Today

Whether it’s junipers, maples, or magnolias, we’re here to help your landscape thrive, from the ground up.

We’re here to help, no pressure, no guesswork, no surprises.

Call Tip Top Arborists today at 661-942-5501

Or visit www.tiptoparborists.com to schedule your removal or hazard inspection.