SP658 Lightning Protection for Trees

Lightning is one of nature’s most powerful forces. Lightning can have devastating effects on people, property and trees. Each strike of lightning can reach more than five miles in length, and produce temperatures greater than 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit and an electrical charge of 100 million volts. At any given moment, there are 1,800 thunderstorms in progress somewhere across the earth. Lightning detection systems in the United States sense an average of 25 million lightning strikes per year.

Trees occupy a particularly susceptible position in the landscape, since they are often the tallest objects. Tall trees are the most vulnerable, especially those growing alone in open areas such as on hills, in pastures or near water. Many of these trees line our community streets and surround our homes, schools and businesses.