Lightning Strikes a Spotted Gum Tree in Adamstown Heights: A Case Study

Identifying the Effects of Lightning Strikes on Trees

Approximately six months ago, a dramatic event took place when lightning struck this remarkable Spotted Gum (Corymbia maculata) situated in Adamstown Heights. After witnessing the incident, the customer promptly reached out to Waratah Professional Tree Care, where our experienced senior arborist, Steve, quickly arrived on site. He conducted an extensive evaluation of the damage and executed a remedial prune to significantly improve the tree’s chances of recovery. The entry and exit wounds from the lightning strike were distinctly visible, while the adjacent tree sustained severe damage, losing all of its foliage due to the overwhelming force of the lightning.

The customer reported a noticeable decline in the health of the tree. They requested Steve to return to assess the tree's potential for recovery following the incident.

What Are the Consequences of Lightning Strikes on Trees?

The charred electrical patterns, known as Lichtenberg figures, were clearly visible, marking the bark of the trunk. Both the entry wound, where the lightning struck, and the exit wound, where it earthed, were apparent and unmistakable.

Lightning does not only scorch the outer bark of a tree; the internal damage it inflicts can be far more severe and far-reaching.

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

Once the cambium layer is compromised, the tree loses its capacity to transport sugars from the leaves down to the roots and water from the roots to the leafy canopy. The affected cells perish, growth halts, and overall vitality diminishes. This loss critically undermines the structural integrity of the tree.

The tree does not die immediately, which is why the decline may take weeks or even months to manifest visibly. This particular Spotted Gum displays some regrowth, suggesting that it is still struggling to survive. However, the overall prognosis remains uncertain and cautious.

What Are the Future Prospects for This Tree?

The extent of damage the tree sustained relies heavily on how much of the cambium layer was destroyed and whether the root system also suffered from the earthing strike.

Steve’s assessment revealed several urgent priorities:

• Immediate safety measures: It is vital to monitor the structural integrity of the tree. A tree that has been struck by lightning may appear stable while being severely weakened internally. Any substantial deadwood present in the canopy poses a falling hazard and requires prompt attention.
• Vigilance 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 care.
• Regular evaluations: The amount of regrowth observed in the coming months will offer valuable insights into the tree’s long-term prognosis. If the regrowth is robust and continues, there is hope for recovery. Conversely, if it stalls, removal may ultimately be the safest option to mitigate further risk.

Should You Be Alarmed About Lightning Strikes Affecting Your Trees?

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

If you notice a sudden or unexplained decline in a tree, especially following a storm, it is prudent to have an arborist evaluate it sooner rather than later. Early intervention offers the tree the best chance for recovery and protects you from the dangers associated with a compromised tree that goes undetected.

Overview of the Case Study

This assessment was conducted by Steve Brown, senior arborist at Waratah Professional Tree Care. Waratah has been providing arborist services across 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 before the strike, and the extent of damage to the conducting tissue. An evaluation by an arborist is essential for determining the prognosis.

How can I identify 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, entry and exit wounds, sudden dieback of the canopy in the weeks following a storm, and in some cases, split wood or shattered branches. The presence of Lichtenberg figure burn patterns on the bark is a definitive indicator.

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

What actions 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 evaluated. Contact a qualified arborist as soon as possible. Avoid attempting to assess the structural damage yourself, as internal damage may not always be visible from the outside.

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