Winter Ice and Snow on Lehigh Valley Trees
Allentown averages about 33 inches of snow a winter, and some years bring heavy, wet storms or freezing rain. Ice and wet snow can multiply the weight on branches many times over.
Request a tree serviceWhich trees suffer most
Trees with weak forks, long horizontal limbs and brittle wood, like some maples and Bradford pears, break most often in ice.
Before winter
Have deadwood removed and long limbs reduced in the fall, especially over the house and driveway.
During a storm
Stay out from under trees. Don't try to knock ice off branches; it can snap them.
Snow on evergreens
Gently brush heavy snow off small evergreens with an upward motion.
Power lines
Ice brings limbs down on lines. Stay away and call the utility.
After the storm
Look for hanging limbs and splits once the ice melts.
Salt damage
Road salt near driveways and streets can stress trees over time.
Recovery
Many trees recover with corrective pruning; badly split trees may need removal.
Next
See storm and emergency tree work.
Bradford pears
Callery or Bradford pears, common in neighborhoods built from the 1970s on, are notorious for splitting apart in ice and wind because of their tight branch angles. If yours is large and close to the house, ask about reducing or replacing it.
More tree service guides
Tree trouble in Allentown?
Send a request and a tree care professional will get in touch. Requests answered 7 days a week.
Prefer email? [email protected]