My Tree Was Struck By Lightning, What Should I Do and Not Do?

During July of this year, the Pawling, NY area has been plagued by intense thunderstorms. At Six Diamonds Tree Services, our dedicated team has been actively assisting clients in the removal of numerous fallen trees that were damaged by the strong winds. Additionally, we have encountered many trees that have been struck by lightning, resulting in significant damage or even toppling over. It is crucial to recognize that lightning-struck trees pose a threat to both your personal safety and your property. If you discover that your tree has been struck by lightning, it is important to be aware of the following dos and don'ts.

Tree damage caused by a lightning strike may not always be readily apparent and can often be quite inconspicuous. In the event that you suspect your tree has been struck by lightning during a severe storm, it is strongly advised to refrain from approaching the tree. Despite its outward appearance, the tree could be weakened, and the gusts of wind from the ongoing storm may potentially lead to its collapse. It is recommended to wait until the storm subsides before examining the tree, but it is important to maintain a safe distance while doing so. It is best to contact a professional tree company to conduct a thorough assessment of the tree.

If you suspect any issues with your tree, it is crucial to immediately contact a reputable local tree service company for a thorough inspection. In the event that your tree has sustained visible damage or has toppled during a storm, numerous tree service companies offer after-hours assistance. At Six Diamonds Tree Services, we prioritize the needs of our esteemed clients in Pawling, NY, and the Hudson Valley, NY, region by providing 24/7 availability, particularly during severe weather conditions. Rest assured, our team will swiftly arrive at your property and safely eliminate the tree, preventing any further harm to your home or surroundings.

If you happen to spot a tree branch that has been struck and appears to be easily trimmable with your chainsaw, refrain from removing it yourself until a professional tree company has thoroughly evaluated the extent of damage to your tree. While it may appear to be a straightforward solution, there could be underlying damage caused by the lightning that may lead to the tree falling or branches breaking off, if you proceed with branch-trimming. This could potentially put you or others in harm's way that are near the tree.

If you have a tree that has been visibly damaged by lightning or has toppled over, we highly recommend placing a protective barrier around it. Ensure that the barrier is positioned at a safe distance from the tree, keeping you and your loved ones out of harm's way, particularly small children and pets. By doing so, you will be taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of your family until a professional tree service company can assess the situation.

Inspecting fallen trees from the sides of the exposed roots is a common mistake made by many property owners. While it may be intriguing to observe the intricate system of tree roots, this can actually be one of the most dangerous areas to encounter. During severe storms, a tree's entire root plate can be uprooted, giving the illusion that it has fallen over. Even though the tree remains in that position with its branches entangled in other storm debris, it can disentangle itself and spring back into place, potentially causing harm to anyone near its roots and root plate. It is crucial to avoid approaching fallen trees and instead seek assistance from professional tree service companies.

In the Pawling, NY, and Hudson Valley areas, thunderstorms are a natural phenomenon, particularly during the summer months. As a result, it is not uncommon for lightning to strike and topple a number of trees due to strong winds. It may be tempting to capture a captivating selfie with these fallen trees, but it is important to remember that they pose a significant danger. These trees can unexpectedly collapse further or suddenly spring back into place, potentially causing severe injuries or even death. In the event that your tree has been struck by lightning, it is important to contact a professional tree service company and ensure that everyone stays clear of the area.