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Homeowner deals with fallen tree across Northland driveway after storms

Posted at 7:32 AM, May 19, 2017
and last updated 2017-05-19 08:32:46-04

Severe weather has left one person in the Northland with a huge problem Friday morning. A tree fell onto the front part of a home just off of I-29 and NW 68th Terrace.

The large tree spans the driveway, making it impossible for anyone to drive up to the home.

All this was caused by Thursday night's severe weather, which included rain and hail hitting parts of the metro from Olathe to KCK.

It's that time of year when we are dealing with high winds that can pick up in an instant.

Here are a couple of things to help you avoid a tree falling on your home.

  • If your tree is leaning, it could be a sign its roots are weak, especially if you see cracked soil or exposed roots near the base.
  • Inspect all sides of the tree, both up close and from a distance.
  • Check for cuts or peeling bark.
  • You can use binoculars to look at the tree’s crown for dead wood and brown leaves.
  • Possible solutions
  • Prune the tree to distribute weight
  • Use cables to secure tree long-term

Proper tree care may also be key. Pruning is a great practice to address dangerous branches and other hazards. However, improper tree pruning may be just as much of a hazard.

Mulching, fertilization and irrigation are also needed. This will help keep your tree healthy long-term.

If you see any of this, you may want to call an arborist:

  • Cracked or heaving soil, especially on the side opposite the lean.
  • Exposed roots around the base of the tree.
  • Inspect all sides of the tree, both up close and from a distance.
  • Check for cuts in or peeling bark.
  • Use binoculars to inspect the tree’s crown for dead wood and brown leaves.