Since trees are often the tallest points on a property, they can attract lightning during a storm. When one is struck, the impact can be devastating to its health. Here’s what tree services recommend doing in such a situation.

What Happens When Lightning Strikes a Tree?

Lightning can heat the surrounding air to 50,000 degrees. The extreme heat will instantly boil the water in the tree’s cells, killing or severely damaging it.

After being struck, the tree can end up with a large crack, missing bark, or significant charring. In other cases, the trunk might blow apart entirely, requiring emergency tree services to clean up the debris. When lightning penetrates the center of the trunk, the tree typically dies. In some cases, the tree can catch fire. If this is the case, call 911 immediately to contain the blaze.

Is It Possible to Save It?

Even if they become injured, some trees can survive lightning strikes. This is more likely when the vegetation is soaked with rain, as the lightning current might only travel around the tree and not enter it.

Since plants have moisture, they retain electrical charges. To avoid shock, allow at least an hour to pass before approaching the affected area. Then, water the tree to replenish the moisture that was vaporized by the strike. 

Afterward, schedule pruning for any damaged branches, particularly if the tree is large or near powerlines. An arborist might also recommend applying fertilizer to provide a much-needed supply of life-saving nutrients to the plant. If the tree stays alive until the spring arrives, there’s a chance it will recover fully. Your tree service professional will have to periodically check it for insect infestations that can target weak limbs.

If your tree was damaged during a storm, get help from the professionals at Liscombe Tree Service. Located in St. Charles, MO, their team of arborists will take all of the necessary steps to protect your property and yard. If they determine that the tree can’t be saved, they will provide removal and stump grinding services. Call (314) 650-9055 for emergency service, or visit their website to learn more about storm damage.