What to Do When Lightning Strikes a Tree in Bloomfield, CT
What to Do When Lightning Strikes a Tree in Bloomfield, CT
One lightning strike can carry up to 100 million volts of electricity. When that kind of power hits a tree, the results can be devastating. Bark explodes. Branches shatter. Sometimes, the tree looks fine on the outside but is already dying on the inside. For homeowners in Bloomfield, CT—and nearby towns like Hartford, Windsor, Simsbury, and West Hartford—lightning-struck trees are more common than you’d think.
So what do you do when it happens in your yard? Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Safety First
First things first: make sure the area is safe. If the tree is touching your house, garage, or—most importantly—power lines, do not approach it. Fallen or leaning branches can shift suddenly, and downed wires are a major hazard. Keep people and pets away from the area until professionals arrive.
Step 2: Inspect for Damage
Sometimes lightning damage is obvious—a long vertical crack, scorched bark, or branches blown apart. Other times, it’s much more subtle. Leaves may wilt within days. Bark may quietly peel back. The inside of the tree might be burned, even if the outside looks okay.
Here’s what to watch for:
- Long cracks or splits down the trunk
- Bark blown off in strips
- Sudden leaf drop or wilting
- Branches breaking off without warning
Even if you don’t see visible damage right away, the tree could still be compromised.
Step 3: Call a Professional Tree Service in Bloomfield, CT
This isn’t a wait-and-see situation. A tree that’s been hit by lightning can become unstable quickly, even if it doesn’t look dangerous yet. That’s why it’s important to call a tree service company in Bloomfield right away.
At Boa Bloomfield Tree Service, we’ve handled countless storm-damaged trees. Sometimes we’re able to save them with pruning and ongoing care. Other times, the safest move is tree removal. The key is catching the problem early before the tree becomes a bigger liability.
Step 4: Think About Prevention for the Future
If you have tall, isolated trees near your home, consider installing a lightning protection system. These copper cables safely redirect strikes into the ground, sparing your trees from the full impact. It’s not necessary for every property, but if you have a historic oak or a tree that shades your home, it can be a smart investment.
Why Acting Fast Matters
A tree weakened by lightning isn’t just at risk of dying—it can become a serious hazard. Falling limbs, unstable trunks, and hidden internal damage can all lead to expensive property damage or safety issues. The sooner you bring in an expert, the better your chances of either saving the tree or removing it before it causes harm.
Final Word
When lightning strikes a tree in Bloomfield, CT, it’s more than just bad luck—it’s a situation that needs quick, professional attention. Stay safe, keep your distance, and call in a team that knows how to handle emergency tree service.
At Boa Bloomfield Tree Service, we provide fast, reliable tree removal and storm cleanup throughout Bloomfield, Windsor, Simsbury, West Hartford, and surrounding towns. Whether you’ve got a lightning strike, storm damage, or a tree that just doesn’t look right, we’ll help you make the right call.
