Following a July marked by severe thunderstorms and tornadoes across New Jersey, Wayne's Tree Service, a family-operated tree care company based in Somerville, is urging homeowners in Somerset, Hunterdon, Middlesex, and Union counties to have mature trees assessed before the peak of storm season. The recommendation comes after the region experienced significant tree damage, including downed trees and power outages affecting hundreds of thousands of residents.
On July 4, thunderstorms with gusts near 70 miles per hour cut power to roughly 249,000 New Jersey customers, with the National Weather Service logging numerous reports of downed trees in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. Later, on July 21, the agency confirmed four tornadoes elsewhere in the state. These events highlight the vulnerability of the region's tree canopy to severe weather.
"Most of the trees our crews removed in July were already compromised before the wind ever arrived," said Peter Ahlert, owner of Wayne's Tree Service and a veteran. "Storms rarely take a healthy tree. They find the weak one."
The company points to several warning signs that homeowners can spot from the ground: soil lifting or cracking at the base of a trunk, which may indicate root plate movement; two trunks joined in a narrow V-shape, a common failure point in mature maples and oaks; dead limbs hanging over roofs, driveways, or play areas; fungal growth at the root flare; and a canopy that has noticeably thinned since last summer.
In addition to safety concerns, Wayne's Tree Service reminds property owners that tree removal is regulated at the municipal level in New Jersey. Most Central Jersey towns now require a permit to remove trees above a certain trunk diameter, though hazardous trees are often exempt with proper documentation. Homeowners are encouraged to check local regulations before scheduling any tree work.
The company offers free estimates and operates a 24-hour emergency line for storm-related tree issues at (732) 805-0609. Founded in 1993, Wayne's Tree Service provides tree removal, pruning, stump grinding, land clearing, planting, and emergency storm response across the four counties. It is fully licensed and insured, holding NJ Licensed Tree Care Operator No. 565 and NJ Tree Expert No. 806860.
Proactive tree care is essential for minimizing storm damage and ensuring public safety. By identifying and addressing weak trees early, homeowners can protect their property and avoid costly and dangerous emergencies.
