When lightning strikes a tree, the effects are dramatic and often destructive, driven by the immense energy discharged in the strike. The strike can turn even the most placid tree into a dangerous bomb.
Lightning can reach temperatures of up to 30,000 Kelvin, hotter than the surface of the sun. This intense heat superheats the moisture within the tree, leading to catastrophic effects.
Trees contain significant amounts of water, particularly in their sap and cells. When lightning strikes, the electrical energy travels through the tree, often along the moisture-rich outer layers, such as the sapwood, or down its core if the bark is moist. This rapid energy transfer instantly vaporizes the water, turning it into steam. Steam occupies much more space than liquid water, causing an explosive increase in pressure within the tree’s cells and vascular system.
The sudden expansion of steam can generate forces strong enough to split the tree’s bark or wood apart violently. The outer bark often peels away or is blown off, and pieces of wood may be scattered, sometimes over a wide area. This phenomenon resembles a small explosion, as the superheated contents rupture the tree’s structural integrity.
If the strike is severe, it may kill the tree outright.
SEETHINGS incorporates a tree strike with devastating consequences. It starts with an evening of after dinner conversation and storm-watching from the verandah of home high on a ridge. The skies swell with ominous clouds, followed by mesmerising pulses of light. The developing show across the valley below enthrals everyone. Mitchell gets his camera so he can get a picture of the action.
Suddenly, lightning strikes the side of a nearby gum tree, causing it to explode and sending debris every which way at speed, including across the driveway toward the house. It’s both shocking and exciting to witness, but the squalls make it to the ridge before anyone can examine the extent of the damage. The wind drives the rain under the roof, forcing everyone to retreat inside the home.
The power fails, and the lights go out. The people scramble for portable lights. An intense lightning flash turns night into day. Thunder shakes the house, and the dishes rattle. One of the women notices something odd sticking out of David’s chest while the room is illuminated. She screams, but her sound is lost in the roar of violent weather molesting the home. Hail starts breaking windows on the western side.
The remaining story is here.
SEETHINGS promises a gripping psychological thriller that blends murder, passion, and secrets of a sexless marriage. Forman’s vivid prose draws readers into a world where lightning illuminates the skies and hidden truths. As the storm clouds gather, Mitchell’s journey promises to unravel more than just the mystery of the murders.
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