What is "thermal inversion" and its effect on wildfires?

Thermal inversion is a meteorological phenomenon where a layer of warm air traps cooler air and pollutants near the surface of the Earth. This condition can significantly impact wildfires in several ways. When a thermal inversion occurs, the warm air above acts like a lid, preventing the cooler air – and any smoke or heat generated by wildfires – from rising. This can lead to an accumulation of smoke in the lower layers of the atmosphere, which can reduce visibility and create hazardous breathing conditions.

Additionally, the trapping of warm air can enhance the intensity of wildfires. Beneath the inversion layer, the cooler air can become saturated with moisture, but once the inversion caps off this cooler layer, it can prevent further moisture from entering the area. As a result, conditions can become drier and more favorable for fire growth, leading to more intense and unpredictable fire behavior. This is why understanding thermal inversion is critical for effective wildfire management and response strategies.