Lightning Damage

Lightning damage is confined to relatively small circular or oval regions with a diameter of 5-10 m (13-30 ft). Damaged areas may take on the shape of the standing or running water that accumulated during a thunderstorm. Plants are usually killed but can survive on the edges of the affected area. Diagnosis is straightforward since the affected areas have a clearly defined margin. The dead plants will not re-grow over time.  Stems turn a dark colour with dead leaves remaining attached to the plant.

Figure 1. Lightning Damage occurs in circular areas that have defined margins.