Shuffling the flowering branches of a Cedar tree might be amusing to watch but hazardous to health as a surprising explosion can occur any second. Not a fire, obviously!
Scroll down the article to learn the most troubled area of the United States due to the native tree and how to minimize its effect.
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Are Cedar Trees Flammable?
Cedar trees are among the tallest conifers native to the mountain area of the Mediterranean region and the western Himalayas.
Meanwhile, the ignition occurs when the tree foliage comes near or in contact with the ground allowing it to catch on the surrounding fire.
The flame on the leaves slowly transfers to the tree sap and makes it burn. And once a single Cedar tree is on fire, it throws thousands of sparks into nearby structures.
Thus, Cedar trees are a fire hazard contributing to the spread of fire.
Cedar Tree Explosion [Interesting Facts]
Although Cedar tree fire news is common in Central Texas and wildfire-prone areas, the explosion we discuss here is not the fire.
Instead, the explosion is a natural wonder resembling fire smoke when someone hits Cedar branches or blows a wind.
In the winter month, when most of the plant undergoes dormancy, the Cedar tree comes out vibrantly to give off its flower and pollen.
And the area suffering more from the Cedar tree pollen explosion is Central Texas and the Southern Central United States, where it is found abundantly.
On January 7th, 2020, the people of Austin metro, Central Texas, suffered from the third-highest Cedar tree pollen explosion. It was a record breaker in around a quarter century.
Can Cedar Make You Feel Sick?
The person under the influence of the Cedar tree explosion suffers from a seasonal allergy similar to the flu. The condition is known as “Cedar fever.”
People suffering from Cedar fever symptoms are nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, watery eyes, and sneezing at the initial stage.
See a doctor if the symptoms escalate, resulting in fever, white patches on the throat, or coughing up.
However, to protect yourself from pollen smoke, avoid the pollen altogether.
Stay indoors as much as possible. Be true to it mainly from December to February when the Cedar pollen is at a higher range.
Drink as much water as possible, wash your clothes after coming from outdoors, and monitor your symptom.
Look at the video below for reference!
From Editorial Team
Extra Information!
The Cedar tree explosion was not a big problem till the 1900s. The tall grasses would not allow the tree to survive as it caught fire easily, burning all the surrounding Cedar.
However, due to overgrazing and pasture use, the fire cannot be burned uncontrolled, leading to the survival of Cedar.
Also, building your house 100 to 200 feet away from any Cedar tree is recommended to prevent fire and pollen explosions.
