Why Some Trees Are More Vulnerable To Lightning Than Others

Most people have seen the aftermath of a lightning strike on a tree. A long strip of bark is torn away, branches are scattered across the ground, and in severe cases, the entire tree dies within weeks or months.

However, most homeowners fail to understand that lightning does not target trees randomly. Lightning can hit any tree, but certain trees have a greater chance of being struck by lightning.

Understanding why this happens can help property owners better protect valuable trees and know when a professional tree service in Cumming may be needed after a storm.

Height Plays a Major Role

Do you know that tall trees can be exposed to more electricity, since they are in a position closer to the electricity between clouds and earth.

An oak tree that rises high above all other plants in the garden is more likely to be struck by lightning due to the route that lightning takes.

Tall trees that grow alone in a field or in a big yard are also vulnerable to strikes. This is because when a tree grows much higher than other structures around it, then lightning is attracted to it.

Location of the Tree is a Critical Factor

Many have wondered if some tree species draw lightning bolts. Though some species tend to be hit more often, the place is the bigger consideration.

A tree standing on a hilltop, near water, or in an open place will be at higher risk compared to one standing amidst other trees.

Lightning tends to take the easiest route to earth. Trees found in places like this are just easier targets. However, a professional tree service in Cumming can help homeowners to evaluate

An Increase in Moisture Content Can Cause Vulnerability

The trees have water in them, and the amount of moisture content varies among different species of trees. As moisture conducts electricity, trees with a greater amount of moisture content in them act as a better conductor for lightning to travel through.

It is important to note that trees do not “attract” lightning, but their moisture content affects their reaction to lightning strikes. The result may be severe internal damage, even when there are few visible signs on the outside.

What Follows After A Strike?

There is no need for all trees struck by lightning to be cut down. It turns out that some of them manage to restore their health very well with a little assistance. Others cannot cope, and they start threatening everything around them.

A professional tree service in Cumming can assess how severely your tree has been affected and advise on how to deal with the aftermath of the lightning strike.

Nature Does Not Always Play Favorites

At Sesmas Tree Service, we often remind homeowners that lightning is one of the few tree hazards that can affect even the healthiest specimen on a property.

Even though elements like height, location, and moisture levels might contribute to vulnerability, there isn’t one type of tree that cannot be affected by lightning.

However, the most effective measure involves being aware of the situation. Identifying which trees have a higher risk of being hit by lightning and what to look out for when it comes to lightning strikes can be useful in preserving and protecting your trees.