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8 Ways to Identify Lightning Strikes on Trees

8 Ways to Identify Lightning Strikes on Trees

Lightning strikes are not just scary weather phenomena but also cause significant damage to trees. When a tree…

Jun 06,2024

Lightning strikes are not just scary weather phenomena but also cause significant damage to trees. When a tree on your premises is struck, it experiences structural deterioration, health issues, or death. If you live in an area with frequent adverse weather, understanding how to identify the signs of a lightning strike can increase the safety of your property. At the Sesmas Tree Service, we can help you maintain a healthy and lush lawn by assessing the situation accurately and acting quickly. Here are ways to help you pinpoint lightning strikes and make informed decisions.

8 Ways to Identify Lightning Strikes on Trees

Splintered or Stripped Bark

Splintered or stripped bark is the most obvious sign of a lightning strike on a tree. When lightning strikes, it often travels down the tree's bark, which is full of moisture, causing it to explode or strip away because of the sudden extreme heat. If you notice bark missing or scattered around the base of a tree, call a trusted tree care company to determine the severity of the lightning strike and recommend effective solutions.

Cracked or Split Trunk

A cracked or split trunk is another sign of a lightning strike. The intense heat produced when lighting strikes a tree causes the sap inside to expand, cracking or splitting of the trunk. These splits can be vertical and extend several feet down, compromising its structural integrity. Once you notice a damaged trunk, professional intervention is vital to prevent safety hazards, property damage, and tree removal emergencies.

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Burn Marks

Burn marks on a tree are usually a result of the intense heat from a lightning strike. Look out for blackened or charred areas on the bark, branches, or leaves, and consult a tree service to determine the next course of action. The burn marks can vary in size and severity, depending on the strike's intensity and the moisture content; hence, there is a need to work with professionals for an accurate assessment.

Wilting or Dying Leaves

Lightning strikes can cause instant and severe damage to a tree's vascular system, disrupting water flow and nutrients. This damage often results in wilting of leaves or death and tree removal emergencies after the strike. If a tree's leaves wilt or die without any apparent reason, a lightning strike could be the culprit.

Fallen Branches

The shockwave from a lightning strike can cause branches to break off or fall from the tree. These branches might be scattered around the tree's base or hanging precariously from the remaining limbs. The fallen branches often show signs of burning or splintering, confirming a lightning strike.

Root Damage

While minor root damage is barely detectable, it is a significant indicator of a lightning strike. Lightning can travel through the roots and cause extensive damage below ground. Since the damage is not visible to the naked eye, look for wilting leaves, reduced growth, or instability issues. It is advisable to schedule routine inspections with a tree care company to detect the signs of root damage early before things worsen.

Customer Reviews

3 large Leyland Cypress trees removed near front of our home. Excellent service, professional crew, very competitive pricing for superior work! Rolando provided the initial estimate and the  follow up and was the best in terms of customer relations. I'd both use this company again AND highly recommend them.

Susan Hitchcock

This is the 2nd time we have used Sesmas Tree Service. They are a wonderful company to deal with. They were on time, professional, and very thorough. They cleaned up prior to leaving and went out of their way to protect our plants and landscaping. And they kept to their proposal with no hidden cost or add ons. Definitely a five star experience!

Gene McFadden

Wow!  I deal with tree services in my professional work and I can honestly say Sesmas is by far the most professional, best equipped, efficient, safety conscious, and communicative service I've ever encountered.  Their price was very reasonable and they even went so far as to include additional work without increasing the price.  Call them!  Now! They are very quick to respond.

Scott McLendon

We've used Sesmas several times and have always received excellent service.  Estimates are quick and easy and the crew is efficient and leaves the property clean of debris.  Recently we needed a tree removed next to a heavily landscaped area.  Sebastian went over everything with me in detail and listened to my concerns.  The crew did an excellent job in removing the tree with minimal disturbance to the surrounding area.  We are pleased and will consider them again in the future for pruning and tree removal.

Tonia Griswold

Sesmas Tree Service was amazing! I had two dead trees cut and a lot of trees that were already down on my property removed. Sebastian came out and sent the quote in writing within 24 hours. We were in the process of scheduling the service when a slot opened up sooner snd I was able to go ahead and get the work done. Everything was explained ahead of time for what to expect. The crew was very efficient and professional.  All of the work and cleanup was done in one day. I would recommend Sesmas for your tree cutting/cleanup needs.

LaDora Woods

I hired Sesmas to cut down a very tricky tree that was hanging over my house as well as a few large limbs. They did a great job and had the machinery to get the job done right.

Perry Hartman

Great experience with Sesmas. They were meticulous with my tree removal, safe and efficient. David’s communication throughout the process was much appreciated. Highly recommend!

Lindsay Ellenburg

Great experience with Sesmas Tree Service. The arborist who came out was a Board Certified Master Arborist, and you could immediately tell he knew his stuff. He took the time to explain what needed to be done, gave us clear options, and helped us feel confident from start to finish. The whole process was easy and professional. We’ll definitely use them again.

Ed Martin

Sudden Decline in Health

A tree struck by lightning often shows a rapid decline in health. This decline can include a combination of the previously mentioned signs, such as wilting leaves, cracked bark, and fallen branches. If a healthy tree suddenly starts to exhibit multiple symptoms of distress, hire certified arborists to determine if it is a lightning strike and recommend effective solutions.

Spiral Patterns on the Bark

Lastly, a lightning strike can leave distinctive spiral or channeling patterns on the tree's bark. As the lightning follows the path down the tree, it forms these patterns because of the less resistance the medium provides. Although this may not raise concerns initially, professional intervention is vital. Tree service experts can inspect the tree, assess the severity, and address the problem accordingly.

As a property owner, identifying lightning strikes on trees is crucial for assessing the damage and taking appropriate action to ensure safety and tree health. Contact us at the Sesmas Tree Service and schedule a consultation with our arborists to manage the immediate aftermath and prevent potential hazards associated with weakened trees.

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