Spotted Gum Tree Struck by Lightning in Adamstown Heights

Understanding the Effects of Lightning Strikes on Trees

About six months ago, a stunning event transpired when lightning struck a striking Spotted Gum (Corymbia maculata) in Adamstown Heights. The client, having witnessed this extraordinary phenomenon, quickly reached out to Waratah Professional Tree Care. Our experienced senior arborist, Steve, responded swiftly to assess the situation. He carried out a thorough evaluation of the damage and executed a remedial prune, dramatically increasing the tree's chances of recovery. The entry and exit wounds from the lightning strike were distinctly visible, while the adjacent tree suffered extensive damage, losing all its foliage due to the immense force of the lightning.

The customer noticed a considerable deterioration in the tree's health and subsequently requested Steve to return for a follow-up evaluation to assess the tree's capability for recovery after the incident.

What Are the Consequences of Lightning Strikes on Trees?

Distinct charred electrical patterns, referred to as Lichtenberg figures, were visibly marked on the bark of the trunk. Both the entry wound, where the lightning struck, and the exit wound, where it earthed, were clear and unmistakable indicators of the strike.

Lightning does not only scorch the external bark of a tree; the internal damage it causes can be significantly more serious and extensive.

When a bolt of lightning strikes a tree, the vast electrical charge travels through the tree, seeking the path of least resistance to the ground, usually moving through the water-conducting tissue located just beneath the bark. The heat produced is intense and instantaneous, effectively boiling the sap within the cambium layer, which comprises a thin band of living cells crucial for the tree's growth and the transportation of essential nutrients and water throughout the tree.

Once the cambium layer is damaged, the tree loses its ability to transport sugars from the leaves down to the roots and water from the roots to the leafy canopy. The affected cells die, growth ceases, and overall vitality declines. This loss critically undermines the structural integrity of the tree, rendering it a potential hazard.

The tree does not die straight away, which is why the decline may take weeks or even months to become visibly apparent. This particular Spotted Gum shows some signs of regrowth, indicating that it is still fighting to survive. However, the overall prognosis remains uncertain and requires cautious ongoing monitoring.

What Is the Likelihood of Recovery for This Tree?

The degree of damage the tree sustained largely depends on the extent of the cambium layer destruction and whether the root system also suffered damage from the earthing strike.

Steve’s assessment identified several immediate priorities:

• Implementing immediate safety measures: It is essential to monitor the structural integrity of the tree. A tree that has been struck by lightning may seem stable while being severely weakened internally. Any significant deadwood present in the canopy poses a falling hazard and requires prompt attention to ensure safety.
• Monitoring for secondary infections: The wounds created by a lightning strike can serve as entry points for fungal diseases and wood-boring insects. A compromised tree is a vulnerable tree that necessitates close observation and ongoing care to prevent further decline.
• Conducting regular evaluations: The amount of regrowth observed in the coming months will provide valuable insights into the tree’s long-term prognosis. If the regrowth is vigorous and continues, there is potential for recovery. Conversely, if it halts, removal may ultimately be the safest option to mitigate further risk to surrounding structures and people.

Should You Be Alarmed About Lightning Strikes Affecting Your Trees?

While lightning strikes are relatively rare occurrences, they are not as infrequent as many might assume. Tall, isolated trees and those located near water are statistically at a higher risk of being struck. Spotted Gums, like numerous eucalyptus species, are particularly conductive due to their moisture content and impressive height, making them more vulnerable to lightning strikes.

If you observe a sudden or unexplained decline in a tree, especially following a storm, it is wise to have an arborist evaluate it as soon as possible. Early intervention provides the tree with the best chance for recovery and protects you from the dangers associated with a compromised tree that goes undetected, which can pose serious risks to both people and property.

In-Depth Case Study Review

This assessment was conducted by Steve Brown, senior arborist at Waratah Professional Tree Care. Waratah has been delivering arborist services throughout Newcastle and the Hunter Region since 1998. We proudly hold ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 certifications through Global Compliance Certification.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lightning Strikes on Trees

Can a tree recover after being struck by lightning?
Yes, some trees can recover from lightning strikes, particularly if the impact was a glancing blow and the damage to the cambium is limited to one side of the trunk. The potential for recovery hinges on the species, the tree's overall health prior to the strike, and the extent of damage to the conducting tissue. An evaluation by an arborist is essential for determining the prognosis and appropriate care.

How can I determine if my tree has been struck by lightning?
Look for signs such as bark that has been blown off or scorched in a spiral or vertical pattern down the trunk, visible entry and exit wounds, sudden dieback of the canopy in the weeks following a storm, and in some instances, split wood or shattered branches. The presence of Lichtenberg figure burn patterns on the bark is a definitive indicator of lightning damage.

Is a tree that has been struck by lightning hazardous?
Yes, it can be. A tree that has sustained significant internal damage from a lightning strike may fail structurally without displaying obvious external signs of distress. If you suspect lightning damage, it is imperative to have the tree assessed by a qualified arborist without delay to ensure safety.

What steps should I take if I suspect my tree has been struck by lightning?
Ensure that people and pets are kept away from the affected tree until it has been thoroughly evaluated. Contact a qualified arborist promptly for a professional assessment. Avoid attempting to assess the structural damage yourself, as internal damage may not always be visible from the outside, leading to potentially dangerous situations.

If you have a tree that you are concerned about following storm damage or a lightning strike, Waratah Professional Tree Care offers onsite assessments across Newcastle and the Hunter Region starting from $110.
Contact us at (02) 4956 6602.