Clifford: Emergency tree services

While, the July 1 extreme weather event brought more damage due to flooding, than damage due to tree issues, it is a good reminder that weather events can cause significant issues for West Carleton residents that now have a recent history of extreme weather events that have caused chaos in the community.

Ottawa’s weather can be unpredictable, with powerful storms leaving a trail of fallen trees and broken branches.

Over the past several years, major weather events have caused widespread tree damage, highlighting the need for fast and reliable emergency tree services.

From the 2018 Ottawa tornado to the 2022 derecho and the 2023 ice storm, extreme weather has tested the resilience of our city’s trees and the ability of property owners to recover quickly.

When disaster strikes, immediate tree care is crucial to prevent further damage; clear hazards; and restore safety. Our emergency tree services provide fast, professional solutions to storm-damaged trees across Ottawa and the surrounding areas.

Ottawa’s extreme weather and tree damage

The 2018 Ottawa tornado

On September 21, 2018, a series of devastating tornadoes tore through Ottawa, with Dunrobin and Arlington Woods among the hardest-hit areas. The powerful winds uprooted thousands of trees, damaged homes and left many residents without power for days. Emergency tree removals were critical in clearing fallen trees from roads and properties.

The 2022 derecho

The derecho of May 21, 2022, was one of the most destructive storms in Ottawa’s history. With wind speeds exceeding 190 km/h in some areas, the storm snapped trees; brought down hydro poles; and blocked streets with massive debris fields. Many properties suffered severe tree damage, requiring immediate removal of hazardous limbs and fallen trunks.

The 2023 ice storm

April 2023 brought a freezing rain event that coated Ottawa’s trees in heavy ice. The weight caused large branches to snap and entire trees to fall, damaging vehicles, homes and power lines. Ice storms are particularly dangerous because weak limbs can break unpredictably, posing an ongoing safety risk even after the storm has passed.

Why emergency tree services are essential

When storms hit, emergency tree services are necessary for:

• Preventing further damage – Broken limbs and uprooted trees can continue to cause structural damage if left unattended.
• Ensuring safety – Trees that lean dangerously or have cracked limbs can pose immediate hazards to people and property.
• Clearing debris quickly – Efficient removal helps restore access to homes, driveways, and roadways.

What to do after a storm damages your trees

If your property has storm-damaged trees, follow these steps to stay safe:

• Assess from a safe distance – Avoid walking under damaged trees or leaning trunks.
• Watch for downed power lines – If a tree has fallen on power lines, stay clear and contact Hydro Ottawa immediately.
• Call a professional tree service – DIY removal of large fallen trees is dangerous. Our team has the expertise and equipment to handle it safely.

How we respond to emergency tree calls

When you call us for emergency tree services, we provide:

• Rapid response – We prioritize urgent cases to remove hazardous trees as soon as possible.
• Specialized equipment – Our team uses professional-grade saws, cranes, and safety gear to handle large, fallen, or precarious trees.
• Safe and efficient cleanup – We ensure your property is cleared of debris and safe to access.

Severe weather is unpredictable, but having a trusted tree care provider can help you recover quickly. If you need emergency tree services in Ottawa, contact us for fast, reliable assistance. We serve homeowners and businesses throughout Ottawa, West Carleton, Stittsville, Kanata, Nepean, Carp, Almonte, and Arnprior.

Be proactive, schedule a tree health assessment today to identify potential hazards before the next storm hits.

Andrew Clifford has worked in the tree care industry since 2011 and completed the Urban Arboriculture program at Humber College. He founded Capital Timber Company in 2013. Based in Kinburn, the company provides Ottawa and the Valley with professional tree care services.

To view all Clifford’s columns, click here.

For more information, you can visit Capital Timer’s website here.