Storm Season 2025: Preparing Your Trees and Property in Central Indiana

Central Indiana’s storms keep getting stronger. Climate Central found a 14.6 percent jump in hourly rainfall intensity for Indianapolis since 1970 Axios. In 2024 alone, winds over 70 mph on June 25 and an EF-2 tornado on July 29 toppled thousands of trees and knocked out power to tens of thousands National Weather ServiceNational Weather Service. Now is the time to make sure your maples, oaks, and spruces are storm-ready.

Why Your Trees Are at Higher Risk This Year

• Heavier downpours saturate soil, weakening root systems.
• Added moisture makes limbs heavier and more prone to breakage.
• Warmer winters let pests like emerald ash borer keep gnawing year-round.

Quick, Ground-Level Tree Checkup

1. Look for cracked or hanging limbs over driveways or roofs.
2. Check the base for fungal “conks” or mushrooms—signs of internal decay.
3. Note any severe trunk lean or heaving soil on one side.
4. Flag deadwood thicker than two inches.

If you spot any of these, call a qualified arborist. Follow Purdue Extension’s structural-pruning guidelines for long-term stability extension.purdue.edu.

Seven Easy Storm-Prep Actions for Homeowners

• Trim small, low branches away from siding and gutters.
• Remove lawn furniture and toys that could become airborne.
• Mulch a two- to three-inch ring—avoid volcano piles.
• Install light cabling on split co-dominant stems.
• Photograph each mature tree for insurance.
• Verify your policy covers emergency tree removal.
• Save Pro Finish Tree Care’s emergency number.

What to Do When a Tree Falls

1. Keep everyone clear of downed lines and call 911 if wires are involved.
2. Take photos for insurance, then call Pro Finish for emergency tree removal, limb cleanup, and stump grinding.
3. Get a written estimate; emergency removals can cost up to $5,000 This Old House, though wind-storm events are often reimbursed.

After the Storm

• Grind stumps flush with grade to eliminate trip hazards and pests.
• Replant with wind-resilient natives like swamp white oak or serviceberry.
• Schedule an annual health inspection—small problems become big liabilities fast.

Why Central Indiana Homeowners Trust Pro Finish

We’re family-owned, locally-owned, and veteran-owned. Our ISA-Certified Arborists arrive with bucket trucks, cranes, and the know-how to handle storm damage safely and efficiently—tree trimming, full removals, and precision stump grinding all in one call.

Ready for peace of mind? Book a complimentary Storm Safety Check before the next system rolls through.