Heavy Snow vs. Your Trees: What Minnesota Homeowners Should Do After a Major Snowfall

How Heavy Snow Can Damage Your Trees in Minnesota — And What to Do Next

When Minnesota gets hit with heavy, wet snow, the weight on your branches can lead to cracked limbs, split trunks, and hazardous leaning trees. Homeowners in Stacy, MN and surrounding Chisago County often don’t realize the risk until the storm has passed — and by then, the damage may already be threatening your home, driveway, or power lines. Understanding how to assess and handle snow damage to trees in Minnesota can help you prevent bigger problems and keep your property safe.

Step 1 — Inspect Your Trees Safely After a Snowfall

Before touching anything, do a visual tree inspection after snowfall from a distance. Look for broken limbs, hanging branches, or ice-coated tops. Never stand under a bent or cracked branch — snow-loaded limbs can snap without warning.

Step 2 — Know When Snow-Bent Branches Need Professional Care

Signs Your Tree Needs Winter Storm Cleanup 

If you notice any of the following, call a professional immediately:

  • Large limbs sagging under heavy snow

  • Deep trunk splits

  • Branches frozen into the ground

  • Leaning trees after the storm

According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) you should approach damaged trees with caution. Trees that are leaning, split or missing large limbs can be unpredictable and are safety hazards. These are all indicators of heavy snow tree branch damage or ice damage that may require trimming or complete removal or repair from a certified arborist. 

When you spot any of these hazards, Trees Et Cetera provides fast, professional winter storm cleanup and emergency tree removal in Stacy, MN and throughout Chisago County—ensuring safe handling, proper cleanup, and expert care from an ISA certified arborists at every step.

Step 3 — Don’t Shake or Knock Snow Off Trees

If you see large limbs sagging under heavy snow do not shake branches as they can cause them to snap due to the added movement. Let them thaw naturally or call a trained expert to handle the removal safely.

Don’t Wait. Call Today.

If your trees suffered damage after Minnesota’s latest snowfall, don’t wait. Call 651-240-1776 or message Trees Et Cetera LLC for fast, expert winter storm cleanup and tree inspection in Stacy, Chisago City, North Branch, Forest Lake, or the surrounding area.

Request your free evaluation today!

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Get Ahead Before Winter: Tree Care Savings & Prep Tips for Minnesota Homeowners