When summer storms hit Ohio, they don’t just bring rain—they bring high winds, flash flooding, downed trees, and property damage. And while the lightning might make for dramatic skies, it’s the falling limbs, rising water, and power outages that leave homeowners scrambling.
With flooding being among the most common natural disasters in Ohio, and with national headlines still fresh from the devastating Texas floods, it’s more important than ever to ask:
Is your property storm-ready?
Is Your Property Storm-Ready? Ohio Flood & Wind Preparedness Guide
Storm-proofing your property means more than just boarding up windows. It involves identifying vulnerabilities in your landscape, reinforcing structures, and having a plan in place for both safety and recovery.
Here’s how to get started:
1. Tree Hazards: Prepare Before the Storm
Strong winds and saturated soil are a dangerous combo, especially for trees with hidden weaknesses. Many of the storm cleanup calls we get at Harrison’s could have been prevented with earlier tree care.
What to look for before the storm:
- Trees with visible lean
- Dead or dying limbs
- Cracks or cavities in the trunk
- Mushrooms or fungal growth at the base (signs of root decay)
- Branches hanging over your roof, driveway, or power lines
What to do about it:
- Schedule a professional inspection
- Remove dead trees or hazardous limbs
- Prune for wind-resistance (thinning the canopy can reduce wind drag)
Learn more about our tree pruning services & tree removal services.
2. Flooding Risks: What to Watch for in Your Yard
Ohio’s most frequent natural disaster is flooding, which can often be made worse by poor drainage, compacted soil, or improper landscape design.
Storm-proofing against flood damage:
- Grade your yard to direct water away from your foundation
- Use mulch carefully—avoid piling it too close to tree trunks or structures where it could trap moisture
- Check that your gutters and downspouts direct water at least 6 feet from your home, even more if you have a basement or if your soil is clay-based
- Consider using deep-rooted trees and native plants to stabilize soil and absorb excess water
Of course, there is only so much you can do when up against major flooding. For statewide tips, visit the Ohio EMA Preparedness Resources page, which contains a wealth of resources for residents.
3. General Storm Readiness Tips for Ohio Homeowners
Even the best-prepped landscape can’t stop every storm. Be ready for the broader risks:
- Emergency Kit: Flashlights, batteries, first-aid, water, and shelf-stable food for at least 72 hours
- Generator Safety: Use portable generators outside only, at least 20 feet away from your home
- Protect Key Areas: Inspect your roof and seal leaks around windows and doors
- Power Outage Prep: Charge your devices before storms, and know your utility provider’s outage reporting system
- Beware of Scams: After a storm, unscrupulous contractors often go door to door. Only work with insured, experienced professionals, and be the one to initiate contact with them.
Learn more about our emergency services.
4. Know Who to Call When the Storm Hits
When a tree falls on your property, minutes matter. That’s why Harrison’s Pro Tree Service offers 24/7 emergency response to homes and businesses across Springboro, Centerville, Franklin, and beyond.
Why local homeowners trust us:
- Decades of experience with storm-damaged trees
- Fast, professional, fully insured response teams
- Clear damage assessments and help with insurance documentation
- Respectful cleanup. We treat your property like it’s our own
Need storm cleanup? Don’t wait:
Contact us today
The Bottom Line: You Can’t Stop the Storm, But You Can Be Ready
Storms are part of life in Ohio. But broken branches, fallen trees, flooded basements, and costly repairs don’t have to be. With proactive care and the right team on call, you can protect your home, your landscape, and your peace of mind.
Looking to get ahead of the next big storm?
Let’s take a walk around your property—before the damage is done.
Serving Springboro, Franklin, Centerville, West Chester, and the greater Miami Valley.
