Tree lightning refers to the phenomenon that occurs when a tree is struck by lightning.
Lightning strikes can severely damage or even destroy trees. Here's a breakdown of what happens:
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Path of Least Resistance: Lightning seeks the easiest path to the ground. Trees, especially tall ones, can become that path.
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Moisture Content: A tree's moist tissues just beneath the bark are a good conductor of electricity. This can cause rapid heating. According to the reference, "A tree's moist tissues often sit just below the outer layer of bark."
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Explosive Effects: The rapid heating of moisture within the tree can create steam, leading to a sudden increase in pressure. This pressure can be so intense that "the bark of a tree appear[s] to explode in large chunks," as mentioned in the reference.
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External vs. Internal Path: When the outer bark is wet, lightning might travel along the outside of the tree. However, if the outer bark is dry, the lightning is more likely to travel internally through the moist tissues.
In summary, tree lightning is the result of lightning striking a tree, often causing significant damage due to the rapid heating and expansion of moisture within the tree.
