An intense tropical weather system of strong thunderstorms with a well-defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph or higher. A tree wind resistance is determined by several factors such as the size, age, condition, and species of the tree.

When hurricanes strike land, they cause damage to trees. When trees fall, they uproot or break at the trunk or branches.

Branches - broken, twisted, cracked branches

Trunk - broken, cracked or twisted trunk and stripped bark

Roots - root failure, erosion and suffocation

Most property damage is caused by fallen trees. Well-maintained trees have a much better chance at surviving tropical winds. Damage to trees from storms can be minimized by designing and implementing a tree management plan.

-Remove weak and diseased trees as well as any large trees within 100 feet of your home or car.

-Prune and thin trees to give them a lower center of gravity and to lessen leaf mass.

-Sculpting a tree will allow wind resistance to increase.

-Lightly fertilize annually and be sure that all trees are growing where their root zones are covered with good healthy soil.

-Watering during drought periods will allow the roots of the plants to maintain their turgor and their holding power.

-Plant trees in groves and add ample shrub mass to deflect wind upwards. This places what is called the "point of overturning pressure" farther from the root zone into the area of the tree with more flexibility.