Trees are often struck by lightning due to several factors:
1 - Height:
Trees are often the tallest structures in an area, making them more likely to be struck by lightning. Lightning tends to strike the tallest object in its immediate surroundings.
2 - Internal composition:
Trees contain water and sap, which are good conductors of electricity. When lightning strikes a tree, electricity travels through the sap and water, often causing significant damage.
3 - Relative insulation:
In a rural or forested environment, trees may be relatively isolated from other structures, increasing their likelihood of being struck.
4 - Large surface:
The surface of trees, with their branches and leaves, provides a large capture area for lightning.
To protect trees against lightning, it is possible to install lightning rod systems specially designed for trees. These systems allow the electrical discharge of lightning to be channeled to the ground, thus preventing damage to the tree.
