Are your trees are strong enough to withstand storms? Here's how to find out

The stability of a tree is put to the test by gusts of wind in storms, as well as heavy rain and snow. If you want to avoid injury, damage and liability on your property, you'll need to keep an eye on any trees you own. Photo: David-Wolfgang Ebener/dpa

Storm season can be worrying if you have trees around, with gusting winds leading to branches breaking off. But that doesn't necessarily mean your tree needs to be felled.

Usually, the branches that come off in storms are dead and no longer needed by the tree, so if they snap off, that's part of the normal, natural process of clearing, says Frank Rheinwald, an agricultural expert for tree care.