How can excessive pruning affect a tree's lightning risk?

Excessive pruning can indeed increase a tree's risk of lightning strike by removing essential growth. When a tree is pruned too heavily, particularly if large branches are removed, it may disturb the natural growth patterns and balance of the tree. Trees have evolved to develop certain structures and heights that can help disperse electrical charges during a lightning strike. Pruning can lead to a loss of these beneficial characteristics, making the tree more susceptible to lightning.

Additionally, a tree with too few leaves and branches might not be able to effectively channel the electrical energy safely through the tree's structure and into the ground. This disruption can create a scenario where the tree becomes a more attractive target for lightning due to its altered form and health. As a result, excessive pruning can compromise tree integrity, increasing the likelihood of being struck by lightning and sustaining damage.