Menu
Lightning doesn’t strike the same place twice. While this might be true, you know how destructive it can be if you live in an area that frequently experiences such weather phenomena. Towering trees are easy targets, acting as lightning arrests during a storm. When a tree in your backyard is struck by lightning, Driscoll Tree Service can help mitigate further damage. Many people don’t recognize the damage caused by lightning, resulting in severe injuries and property damage in the long run.
Lightning results from a built-up electrical charge when ice particles collide in storm clouds. Tall objects on the ground, such as trees, buildings, and other structures, can also build up an electrical charge. The cloud charge connects with the charge on the surface, creating a powerful flow of electric current that causes a bright flash. This is called a lightning strike. Most parts of the United States experience frequent lightning strikes, and when a tree is struck, you need to call a trusted tree service as soon as possible.
As mentioned, lightning is a strong electric current. When a tree in your yard is hit, it heals all the moisture within the tree, creating sparks and fire hazards. A lightning bolt can reach temperatures up to 54,000 degrees Fahrenheit, destroying the tree completely. The force of the strike is enough to split a tree or break several branches. Sometimes the force is too immense, and the tree may appear to have exploded.
Tall trees can survive a lightning strike if they are soaked by rainwater. Since electricity follows the path with the least resistance, lightning will flow down the side and into the ground. If there’s little moisture within the tree, lightning will cause rapid heating and expansion of the tree’s moisture cells and destroy it.
The severity of damage is often determined by the location, tree, type of tree, and the specifications of its environment. Hence, hiring a tree care company in Buford following a lightning strike can address the problem before the damaged tree wreaks havoc on your property.
Lightning is dangerous, and homeowners must know safety protocols to prevent injuries. Even if you are curious, we don’t recommend going outside to examine the damage in the middle of the storm. Don’t stand under or attempt to climb the tree if there are broken branches, or the trunk is split. Look for telltale signs of damage, such as peeling bark, hanging boughs, and split trunk, but leave the pruning to a tree service provider.
Trees are valuable additions to any landscape and deserve routine care and maintenance to thrive. Scheduling regular inspections with a professional tree care company allows you to use their experience and knowledge to enhance the health and longevity of your trees. Contact us at the Driscoll Tree Service and talk to our arborists about an inspection and necessary measures to enhance resistance to lightning.
Essential Tree Care Tips for Every Season Trees require regular care and maintenance to thrive. However, different seasons call for specific care to prevent irreversible damage and premature tree removal emergencies. With that in mind, hiring a professional tree care…
Read MoreSeasonal Tree Care Tips: Summer Edition As summer kicks into full gear, trees in your yard require special attention to stay healthy and vibrant. As a trusted tree care company, Driscoll Tree Service provides routine inspections and maintenance to protect…
Read MoreThe Importance of Mulching Newly Planted Trees Regarding landscaping and gardening, the intricacies of nurturing nature’s wonders are both an art and a science. One crucial aspect that often goes unnoticed but is paramount is mulching newly planted trees. Mulch,…
Read MoreGuide to Trimming Trees Near Power Lines If there’s one piece of advice we could give about trimming trees near power lines, it would be this: leave it to the trained and experienced professionals. Working around live power lines is…
Read MoreIs it Possible to Minimize Storm Damage to Trees? Trees play a critical role in our environment, providing many benefits like shade, oxygen, and beauty to our landscapes. However, they can also be vulnerable to the destructive forces of nature,…
Read MoreWhy Regular Tree Maintenance Is Essential for a Healthy Yard It’s easy to take trees for granted. Most homeowners would never skip a doctor’s appointment or ignore their pet’s annual checkup, but routine care often slips through the cracks when…
Read MoreFescue vs. Bermuda Grass Do you have dry patches on your lawn? Before reseeding, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with different grasses, like fescue and Bermuda. Although these grasses grow on lawns across the country, knowing the differences can…
Read MoreTrees are some of the most fascinating living things on Earth. They can live for decades, centuries, and some even thousands of years. Trees go through a life cycle from tiny seedlings to towering giants. It's just as interesting as…
Read MoreHow Storms Impact Your Trees Trees are a valuable addition to any landscape. From enhancing curb appeal to improving the overall quality of life, trees are no denying essential to the ecosystem. However, like most living things, trees are susceptible…
Read MoreHow to Support Tree Limbs Trees are majestic entities that offer many benefits, from shade and air quality to providing a habitat for wildlife. However, mature trees can become heavy or grow with weak attachments, leading to structural issues and…
Read More