One strong coastal storm can turn a peaceful Southside yard into a tangle of limbs, leaves, and downed lines. If you’ve ever watched winds whip through live oaks, you know how fast things can change. The good news is that a little planning now goes a long way toward protecting your home, your trees, and your peace of mind. In this guide, you’ll learn practical steps to inspect, prune, document, and plan before storm season so you can make confident decisions when the weather turns. Let’s dive in.
Why storm prep matters on Southside
Savannah faces tropical storms and hurricanes each year, with the Atlantic season running June 1 through November 30 and peaking in August through October. Coastal winds, heavy rain, and saturated soils increase the chance of branch failures, uprooting, and crown damage.
Large shade trees like Southern live oak, loblolly pine, sweetgum, and maples are common across Southside. While live oaks tend to be wind‑resistant, overextended limbs, co‑dominant stems, internal decay, included bark, heavy epiphytes, and shallow roots in soggy soils can raise risk. Trees close to homes, garages, and utilities deserve extra attention.
Start early: timing that works
Plan major pruning and structural work well before storm season. For many species, late winter through early spring is ideal. This timing lets pruning wounds begin to close and helps trees handle summer stress better.
Avoid last‑minute heavy pruning or removals in the 48 to 72 hours before a forecasted storm unless there is an immediate hazard. Rushed work can be unsafe and increase the chance of poor cuts that weaken trees.
DIY inspection: what to look for
Walk your yard with a notepad and your phone camera. Look for:
- Large dead or hanging limbs
- Pronounced lean, root heave, or lifted soil at the base
- Trunk cracks, cavities, or fungal growths
- V‑shaped unions with included bark and weak attachments
- Overextended limbs, especially those over roofs, driveways, or HVAC units
- Epicormic sprouts or other signs of stress or decay
Photograph concerns from several angles and record the date. Note the tree species and where it sits relative to your home.
Prune smart and stay safe
Focus on removing dead, diseased, or weak branches and thinning crowded areas to reduce wind “sail area.” Keep it light and targeted. Proper structural pruning uses selective cuts to keep the tree healthy.
- Never “top” a tree or leave large stubs.
- Skip big‑diameter cuts and canopy work above 10 to 12 feet. Hire a qualified arborist for anything beyond small, reachable limbs.
- If a tree is near power lines, do not attempt to prune it yourself. Contact the utility for clearance work.
Live oak care, the Southside classic
Live oaks are sturdy, but they still need smart care. Pay close attention to:
- Co‑dominant stems with included bark
- Large, overextended limbs that put extra leverage on the trunk
- Internal decay or cavities
Selective structural pruning months before peak season reduces failure risk. Heavy thinning can harm live oak structure, so keep cuts strategic and minimal. A qualified arborist can recommend the right balance for your specific trees.
Bring in a pro you trust
When the work involves large limbs, canopy reduction, or complex structure, bring in an ISA‑certified arborist or a similarly qualified tree care company. Ask for:
- Proof of liability insurance and worker’s compensation
- References and before/after photos of similar jobs
- A written estimate outlining scope, cleanup, stump disposal, and timing
- Confirmation of any required city or county permits
Be cautious about door‑to‑door crews offering fast, cheap work during storm season. Get multiple bids and verify credentials.
Document now for insurance
Good documentation makes insurance claims and repair planning faster and smoother.
- Take wide photos showing each significant tree’s position relative to the house.
- Capture close‑ups of cracks, cavities, fungus, root exposure, and pruning cuts.
- Create a simple tree inventory with species, trunk diameter, location, and condition notes.
- Save invoices, permits, and any arborist reports.
- After a storm, photograph damage before debris is moved. Keep removed limbs if your insurer requests inspection.
Permits and historic areas
Before you remove large trees or work on protected trees, check City of Savannah and Chatham County rules. If your home falls within a historic district or conservation overlay, additional approvals may be required.
Sign up for alerts
Get alerts from both county and city sources, plus national weather channels, so you’re not caught off guard.
- County and city emergency alerts for local evacuations and road updates
- NOAA Weather Radio and National Weather Service watches and warnings
- Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone and FEMA/Ready.gov guidance
- Utility outage notifications for power restoration updates
Evacuation planning with trees in mind
Life safety comes first. If an evacuation is ordered, follow it and use your preplanned routes. With time permitting:
- Bring in or secure small outdoor items like furniture and potted plants.
- Move vehicles under cover or to higher ground, away from large trees if possible.
- Only handle urgent, small hazard reduction if you are trained and it is safe. Leave complex work to a professional.
- Turn off propane or natural gas only if local officials instruct it.
- Take timestamped photos of the property before you leave.
If you have pets or large animals, arrange transportation and shelter in advance. Choose routes and staging areas that avoid tree‑lined chokepoints where debris can block access.
Quick pre‑season checklist
- 3–6 months before: Inspect yard, book an arborist for structural pruning, and handle hazardous removals. Apply for permits if needed.
- 1–2 months before: Finish tree work, organize photos and receipts, and sign up for emergency and utility alerts. Assemble your go‑bag and evacuation plan.
- 1–2 weeks before a forecasted storm: Do only urgent hazard reduction, secure loose items, and relocate vehicles.
- 48–72 hours before: Evacuate if ordered. Avoid DIY tree work.
Ready to feel more prepared?
If you’re getting your Southside home storm‑ready, smart tree care is one of the best steps you can take. If you’re also planning a move, the right prep can protect curb appeal and reduce surprises during inspections. For local guidance and trusted referrals, reach out to Unknown Company. Let’s make a plan that fits your timeline and peace of mind.
FAQs
When is hurricane season in Savannah?
- The Atlantic season runs from June 1 through November 30, with peak risk typically from August to October.
How can I tell if a tree is hazardous before storms?
- Look for dead or hanging limbs, trunk cracks, cavities, fungal growths, pronounced lean, root heave, and weak V‑shaped unions. Photograph concerns and consult a qualified arborist.
Are live oaks safe in high winds?
- Live oaks are generally wind‑resistant, but risks rise with overextended limbs, co‑dominant stems with included bark, internal decay, heavy epiphytes, and shallow roots in saturated soils.
Should I prune right before a storm?
- Avoid major pruning within 48 to 72 hours of a forecasted storm unless there is an immediate hazard. Do structural pruning months in advance for best results and safety.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Southside Savannah?
- You may. Check City of Savannah and Chatham County rules, especially if your property is in a historic district or conservation area.
Who should handle limbs near power lines?
- Do not prune near power lines yourself. Contact the utility for clearance work and keep a safe distance from any downed lines after a storm.
