01/22/2026
With a major ice storm expected, one of the most common causes of damage isn’t snow — it’s trees and limbs under ice load. Ice adds extreme weight, and even healthy trees can fail.
Before the storm, take a look around your property:
Trees & Limbs
• Check for low-hanging, dead, cracked, or split limbs
• Look for branches overhanging:
– Your house or roof
– Vehicles
– Power lines
– Driveways and walkways
• Pay special attention to trees near the home foundation
• If something already looks questionable, it’s more likely to fail under ice
What NOT to Do
• Don’t try to cut large limbs during icy conditions
• Don’t stand under loaded branches
• Don’t wait until the storm starts — conditions change fast
Other Often-Missed Ice Storm Issues
• Slow-draining sinks, tubs, and floor drains (freeze risk)
• Crawlspace / under-house vents and exposed piping
• Garage pipes near exterior walls
• Gutters weighed down by ice
• Exterior doors or seals letting cold air in
• Refrigerator water lines and unused toilets
Emergency Readiness
• Know your household emergency plan
• Know how to shut off water quickly
• Have flashlights, batteries, food, water, and pet supplies ready
• Avoid unnecessary travel once ice sets in
After the Storm
• Watch for hanging or partially broken limbs
• Treat downed power lines as live
• Inspect trees, roofs, gutters, and crawlspace areas once it’s safe
At Hoover Enterprises, we’ve seen how ice storms turn small issues into serious damage. A little preparation now can prevent a lot of stress later.
Stay warm. Stay alert. Protect what you’ve built.
