lightning damage to watermelon

Lightning damage-This is not an infectious problem and it not economically important.  However, it is important to recognize lightning damage and distinguish it from other problems. Symptoms vary, but affected areas in fields may be roughly round, but do not expand over time. Affected plants may be rotted or even appear scorched. Note that nearby weeds are also affected. 

Figure 1. Lightning damage on watermelon. Note wilt and other damage. Figure 1. Lightning damage on watermelon. Note wilt and other damage.
Figure 2. Lightning damage on watermelon. Note approximately round area of damage. This photos was taken a few days after the strike occurred. Figure 2. Lightning damage on watermelon. Note approximately round area of damage. This photos was taken a few days after the strike occurred.
Figure 3. Lightening damage on watermelon. Note wilt and leaf burn. Figure 3. Lightening damage on watermelon. Note wilt and leaf burn.
Figure 4. Lightning damage on watermelon. Note wilt and leaf burn. Figure 4. Lightning damage on watermelon. Note wilt and leaf burn.
Figure 5. Lightning damage on watermelon. Figure 5. Lightning damage on watermelon.
Figure 6. Lightning damage on weeds in watermelon field. Figure 6. Lightning damage on weeds in watermelon field.