Lightning debarked my tree

A tree guy told me that most trees die as a result of lightning strikes. The damage doesn't look bad, a crack down the side and some missing bark. But, insects get in and over a period of years, kill the tree.

A black oak was hit a few years ago. About one third of the circumference was blown off. Tree is repairing itself slowly. I assume a total girdle spells death but even then damage may come back. I'd look at the size and scale of the damage and go slow. If it is a potential danger it may have to come down. Better safer than sorry .

Bill

Trim any ragged edges smooth with a sharp knife or chisel, consider starting it's replacement nearby, lightning struck trees decline and you can get a head start on the replacement.