After a severe thunderstorm hits southwest Alabama, you might notice that one of your trees suffered some damage. When you need to know how to tell if a tree was hit by lightning, you should look for certain lightning damage symptoms on trees. Professionals offering tree services in Bucks, AL, can advise you on what signs indicate damage from a strike.
1. Charred Sections of Branches and Limbs
A lightning strike can have a temperature as high as 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This level of heat may cause burn or char marks on the branches and trunk. It can be difficult to see these marks in the canopy when you’re standing on the ground, though.
2. Damage Appearing on the Trunk’s Bark
If the bolt from the storm hits the canopy, it may enter a branch and exit elsewhere in the tree through a weak spot. Learning to spot what lightning does to tree bark and wood as it enters and exits is one of the easiest ways to tell if it suffered a strike. You might see wood splinters and damaged bark on the ground after a strike. You might even see a hole in the trunk or loosened bark.
3. Leaf Wilting and Dropping
Learning how to tell if a tree was hit by lightning may start by inspecting the leaves. The heat and energy from the strike may damage the roots’ ability to pass nutrients and water to the canopy. If the strike interrupts this ability, the leaves may wilt and fall away. They may also wilt from the heat generated by the strike.
The condition of the leaves greatly affects tree health after a lightning strike. If the leaves cannot recover because of the severity of the damage, the plant may die. Professionals can provide advice on caring for a tree after lightning hits it.
4. Weakened or Damaged Roots Causing a Trunk Lean
If the lightning bolt traveled through the trunk before passing into the ground, it may go through the roots. Having the heat and energy of a lightning strike moving through the roots can burn or damage them. You might notice a leaning trunk because of the sudden loss of root stability and health. Professionals can do an inspection to determine the level of root damage.
Count on Tri-State Tree Service for Help With Identifying Damage From Lightning Strikes and Other Issues
If you see signs that a tree was struck by lightning in Bucks, AL, you should contact Tri-State Tree Service for immediate help. Our inspection can verify what you’re seeing and make recommendations on what to do. Many species struggle to survive after being hit by lightning.
Learning how to tell if a tree was hit by lightning can be challenging for homeowners. Our professionals have the expertise needed to determine your tree’s health after a lightning strike. We can recommend steps to take if your tree is dying, too. For a free cost estimate for our services, contact us today at (850) 876-8003.
