Arizona's monsoon season brings the kind of wind and microbursts that can snap limbs, split trunks, and put a whole tree on the ground overnight. If you woke up to storm-damaged trees in your yard, here's a clear, calm plan for what to do next — and when to call in a crew.
First, stay safe
Before you touch anything, look up and look around. The most dangerous situations after a storm are:
- Limbs tangled in power lines. Never go near these. Call your utility, not a tree crew, and keep your distance.
- Hanging or broken limbs still up in the canopy — "widowmakers" that can drop without warning.
- Partially uprooted trees that look stable but are under tension and can shift suddenly.
If a tree is leaning on your house, blocking your only exit, or near power lines, stay clear and get professionals out fast.
Assess the damage
Once you're sure it's safe, take photos for your insurance and make note of what you're dealing with: Is it a few broken branches, or is the main trunk split? Are the roots lifted out of the ground? Photos and a quick description help a crew show up with the right equipment the first time.
Which trees can be saved?
Not every storm-damaged tree needs to come down. A tree that lost some branches but kept its main structure can often be cleaned up and saved with proper tree trimming. But a tree with a split trunk, major root damage, or more than about half its canopy gone is usually a hazard that's better removed before the next storm finishes the job. When in doubt, get an experienced set of eyes on it.
Why fast cleanup matters
Storm debris isn't just an eyesore — broken limbs under tension are dangerous, and a damaged tree left standing is a liability if the next microburst sends it into your roof or your neighbor's. Quick, professional removal and cleanup protects your property and gets your yard back to normal.
Need help now?
Palm Squad is local to the East Valley and responds fast to storm and hazard calls in Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, and Tempe. We're a fully insured crew, cleanup is always included, and we'll tell you straight whether a tree can be saved or needs to go.
Got storm damage? Call (480) 685-0676 for urgent jobs, or request an estimate online. We'll get you taken care of.
Trees need work?
Get a firm, written quote from a local, fully insured crew. Cleanup is always included.