Expert Arborists in Seattle, WA, Share Important Information About Proper Care for a Tree Struck by Lightning

The Aftermath When a Tree is Struck by Lightning

When a tree is struck by lightning, you may see minimal outward damage, but it doesn’t mean that the tree is fine. Lightning is incredibly powerful and anytime it strikes a tree, there will be damage, whether to the outside or the inside of the tree. If the strike is severe enough, the entire tree could blow apart, all the bark blow off, or the tree could catch on fire and burn to the ground.

Arborists see it all, and it’s essential that homeowners understand how to safely inspect their trees after they’ve been struck by lightning. Keep reading to understand the type of damage that can occur to trees, what do to about it, and how experts can help with tree risk assessment.

Damage Caused by Lightning Strikes

When a tree is struck by lightning, it may not always be immediately apparent that the tree has sustained significant damage. There are number of things to look for when checking for tree damage immediately after a lightning strike.

First, check the outside of the tree. It’s common to find a deep gash or groove of bark that’s been split open or stripped the entire length of the tree or on a prominent branch. Continue to visually check for any obvious signs of breakage or charring. Major tree limbs can crack and blow apart and trunks might show blackened or charred areas. Sometimes, there is no sign of damage at all but don’t go climbing the tree! The inside wood could have been burned and damaged even if there are no obvious signs. Any time there is a lightning strike, there are serious safety concerns until a tree service company provides tree inspection and determines the extent of the damage.

What to Do About Damaged Trees

The best thing you can do for your tree is have it inspected immediately after the strike occurs. The sooner damage can be assessed, the better the chance a tree has for a full recovery. All trees struck by lightning will suffer stress and need some amount of aftercare. Depending on how significant the strike was and where on the tree it struck, the prognosis could be anywhere from a healthy life to total condemnation.

If the tree looks to be hazardous to people, animals, or objects in the surrounding area, call in arborists to provide emergency tree services.

Experts Can Help

If a tree has been severely struck by lightning, it may need immediate removal. If this is the case, the tree poses a hazard to everyone and everything nearby. Only professional arborists who offer tree services should be called in to remove a tree hazard or examine a tree newly struck by lightning. They’ll provide safe treatment to prolong the life of the tree and help it heal, or safely remove it from your yard.

Professional, Prompt Tree Care

Seattle Tree Care proudly serves the areas around Seattle, WA for all residential, estate, HOA, and commercial tree care needs. They offer certified arborist tree inspections, free estimates, and recycle 100% of all wood and debris hauled away. All work is licensed and insured and carried out by their skilled and courteous crews.