June 27, 2023
.png)
While lightning storms are captivating, we must not overlook the risks they pose to the trees surrounding residential properties. Following a lightning strike to a tree, property owners should recruit the help of a professional tree service Greenville to help with the recovery process. To offer more insight, our experts at Toler’s Tree Service have outlined potential threats lightning storms pose to trees and residential properties.
Trees, with their height and prominent stature, make prime targets for lightning strikes during storms. Their tall canopies and extended branches act as natural lightning rods. Although it’s hard to predict, studies have revealed several factors that make certain trees more prone to a lightning strike.
Lightning tends to strike the tallest object in a vicinity, so trees that tower over others in a group are more likely to be struck.
Solitary trees in open spaces and trees located near a body of water are more likely to be struck by lightning.
Certain tree species, such as oak trees, are more prone to lightning strikes than others. Our Greenville tree service experts find that trees with rough bark or more likely to be struck by lightning than trees with smooth bark.
Lightning strikes send electrical energy throughout the trunk, causing severe structural damage. The immense heat generated by the lightning bolt can vaporize the tree’s water content, leading to an explosive effect that shatters the bark and trunk. These damages weaken the tree's integrity, making it more susceptible to disease and pests.
When lightning strikes trees, it can lead to long-term property damage and potentially life-threatening circumstances.
Fires are a significant risk associated with lightning strikes. The heat generated during a strike can ignite the tree and any nearby dry vegetation, posing a serious threat to residential properties and forest regions.
Lightning strikes can cause large tree branches to break away, posing a serious risk to nearby structures, vehicles, and bystanders below. Property owners can recruit our tree service Greenville to safely remove dead or partially detached branches following a lightning strike.
When lightning hits a tree near power lines, the electrical surge can travel through the lines and enter residential properties. The surge can damage major electrical systems, appliances, and electronic devices.
Recruiting our tree service Greenville ensures the expertise and equipment needed to safeguard homes and the well-being of loved ones. By addressing the risks lightning storms pose, our experts at Toler’s Tree Service can help property owners mitigate potential damage and preserve the natural beauty of their landscapes. Read our blog to find more tree care and maintenance resources.
