Strong storms can leave behind more than puddles and power outages.
After heavy wind, rain, or snow in Central Pennsylvania, homeowners often wake up to:
- Fallen branches
- Split or hanging limbs
- Damaged trees
- Blocked driveways
- Trees leaning dangerously close to homes or power lines
When storm damage happens, it’s important to know what to do first and what not to do.
Here’s what homeowners in Harrisburg, Hershey, Camp Hill, Mechanicsburg, and surrounding areas should know about storm damage tree cleanup.
1. Check for Immediate Safety Hazards
Before worrying about cleanup, focus on safety first.
After a storm, look carefully for:
- Hanging or partially broken limbs
- Trees leaning unexpectedly
- Branches touching power lines
- Cracked trunks
- Trees resting on structures or vehicles
If power lines are involved, stay far away and contact the utility company immediately.
Even branches that appear stable can shift unexpectedly after storm damage.
2. Avoid DIY Cleanup on Large Damage
We understand the temptation to grab a chainsaw and start cleaning up right away, but storm-damaged trees can be unpredictable.
Branches may:
- Be under heavy tension
- Shift suddenly when cut
- Fall without warning
Large limbs and damaged trees near homes should always be handled carefully and professionally.
Cleanup becomes especially dangerous when ladders, roofs, or power lines are involved
3. Remove Smaller Debris Carefully
Once the area is safe, smaller debris can usually be cleaned up carefully.
This may include:
- Small fallen branches
- Twigs and brush
- Loose yard debris
Cleaning up early helps:
- Prevent lawn damage
- Improve access around your property
- Reduce tripping hazards
4. Look for Hidden Tree Damage
Not all storm damage is obvious right away.
Sometimes trees appear fine initially but develop problems later.
Watch for:
- New leaning
- Cracks in the trunk
- Bark peeling away
- Large limbs without leaves
- Branches hanging unusually low
These can all indicate structural damage that may worsen over time.
5. Don’t Wait Too Long to Address Damaged Trees
A damaged tree may become more dangerous the longer it sits.
Weak limbs can continue to break, especially during:
- Additional storms
- High winds
- Heavy rainfall
Getting damaged trees assessed early can help prevent larger problems later.
How Fritchey’s Tree Service Can Help After a Storm
We help homeowners throughout Harrisburg, Hershey, Camp Hill, Mechanicsburg, and surrounding areas safely deal with storm-damaged trees and cleanup.
Our services include:
Storm Damage Tree Trimming
Removing broken or hazardous limbs while preserving healthy parts of the tree when possible.
Emergency Tree Removal
Safe removal of severely damaged or dangerous trees.
Storm Cleanup & Debris Removal
Clearing fallen branches, brush, and leftover debris to help restore your property.
Stump Grinding
If a tree needs to be fully removed, we can also grind the stump to leave your yard clean and usable.
Local Storm Damage Tree Service in Central PA
Storm damage can be stressful, but you shouldn’t have to deal with it alone.
At Fritchey’s Tree Service, we focus on:
- Honest assessments
- Fair pricing
- Safe, insured work
- Thorough cleanup
- Responsive communication
(Yes… we actually show up for estimates.)
Need Help After a Storm?
If your property has storm-damaged trees or fallen branches, we’re happy to take a look and help you determine the safest next step.
Call or text: 717-574-3202
Or request a free estimate online





