Cracks under branches are cause for concern

This photo was taken looking up. The huge branch shown is about 15 feet from the ground. The orange streak in the bark under this huge 24 inch diameter branch indicates an area of rapid growth. This growth is occurring on either side of a crack that developed several years ago. This time period can be determined by the amount of swelling present. The crack re-opened during an extended two month period in early summer without any rainfall. The photo at right shows a close-up of the crack.

Close-up of the crack under the huge limb shown in the left photo. Do not park under this tree because it could hurt you when the branch falls down.