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.
Removing Trees in Confined Spaces People living in urban and suburban settings often own homes with small yards. This is common in congested areas since most properties are close together. This can pose significant issues regarding tree removal, hence the…
Read MoreTrees are beautiful, strong, and bring life to your yard - but only when they’re well cared for. Regular tree trimming keeps your trees healthy, prevents branches from growing too close to your home, and reduces the risk of falling…
Read MoreDead or Dying Trees: Why Waiting Is Risky Sickness and death are facts of life. That applies to people, pets, and yes—even trees. Trees grow, thrive, decline, and eventually die. It’s part of the natural cycle. In a forest, a…
Read MoreCustomers have every right to wonder what a job will cost them, but this involves more than a direct question. Just calling in to ask the price of a tree removal, for instance, is not going to make anyone happy.…
Read MoreEssential 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 MoreTools and Equipment For Professional Tree Trimming Professional tree trimming could be an easy or difficult process, and that fully depends on the tools you use. Trimming is able to open up the visibility of your property and enhance the…
Read MoreWhy Leaves Change Color in the Fall As fall nears, property owners need to understand why leaves change color. Chlorophyll, a green pigment found in algae, plants, and cyanobacteria, plays an essential role in photosynthesis, allowing plants to absorb energy…
Read MoreThe Impact of Tree Roots on Your Home Trees are a valuable addition to any landscape, providing shade, aesthetics, and a habitat for wildlife. However, these majestic entities pose a significant threat to your property, especially the foundation, plumbing, and…
Read MoreBenefits of Tree Trimming Do you have a tree that needs a lot of attention, but you're unsure what to do? Whether your tree is growing too close to the house, hangs over the driveway, or is growing unevenly, the…
Read MoreThe Life Cycle of a Tree Trees grow over 30 feet tall, with canopies that expand over half their height. However, trees start as tiny seeds and require routine care to enhance growth. If you have a tree planting project…
Read More