What is the best way to gather wood during a storm in Valheim?

Gathering wood during a storm in Valheim can be challenging due to the increased difficulty of chopping trees and the risk of being struck by falling branches or trees. However, with the right preparation and strategy, you can efficiently gather wood even in harsh weather conditions. The key is to understand the game mechanics, use the right tools, and prioritize safety.\n\nFirst, ensure you have the proper tools for wood gathering. A Flint Axe or Bronze Axe is essential for chopping trees efficiently. The Flint Axe is the earliest tool you can craft, requiring 4 Wood, 6 Flint, and 1 Leather Scraps. Flint can be found along riverbanks or shorelines in the Meadows biome. If you have access to Bronze, the Bronze Axe is a significant upgrade, requiring 4 Wood, 8 Bronze, and 2 Leather Scraps. Bronze is crafted by combining Copper and Tin at a Forge.\n\nDuring a storm, trees sway violently, making it harder to predict where they will fall. To minimize risk, always stand on the opposite side of the tree from where you want it to fall. This ensures the tree falls away from you, reducing the chance of being crushed. Additionally, avoid chopping trees near your base or other structures, as falling trees can cause significant damage.\n\nOne effective strategy is to focus on smaller trees, such as Beech or Birch, which are easier to chop and less likely to cause harm when they fall. These trees are abundant in the Meadows biome and provide a steady supply of wood. Larger trees, like Oaks or Pines, yield more wood but are riskier to chop during a storm due to their size and unpredictable falling patterns.\n\nAnother tip is to use the environment to your advantage. If you are near a slope or hill, position yourself so that the tree falls downhill. This not only makes it easier to collect the wood but also reduces the risk of the tree rolling back toward you. Additionally, clear the area around the tree of any debris or other trees to prevent chain reactions that could lead to multiple trees falling unpredictably.\n\nFor experienced players, consider using the Stagbreaker, a two-handed hammer that can knock down multiple trees at once. While it is not as efficient as an axe for wood gathering, it can be useful in clearing large areas quickly. However, be cautious when using it during a storm, as the wide area of effect can make it harder to control where trees fall.\n\nFinally, always keep an eye on your stamina. Storms in Valheim drain stamina faster, so make sure to bring plenty of food that boosts stamina regeneration, such as Cooked Meat, Raspberries, or Honey. This will allow you to chop trees continuously without running out of energy.\n\nIn summary, gathering wood during a storm in Valheim requires careful planning and execution. Use the right tools, prioritize safety, and take advantage of the environment to maximize efficiency. By following these tips, you can gather wood effectively even in the harshest weather conditions.