On certain weather conditions, the smoke hangs low to the ground. What is this phenomenon known as?

The phenomenon where smoke hangs low to the ground under certain weather conditions is known as smoke inversion. This occurs when a layer of warm air traps cooler air and pollutants, such as smoke, near the surface, preventing them from rising. This trapping effect creates a situation where smoke accumulates and lingers at lower altitudes, which can significantly affect visibility and air quality.

This phenomenon is particularly prevalent under specific atmospheric conditions, such as during temperature inversions when stable air prevents the normal upward movement of air that would disperse smoke. Understanding smoke inversion is crucial for firefighters and emergency responders, as it can influence fire behavior, spread, and tactics for fire suppression. Being aware of these meteorological factors helps in anticipating challenges in fire situations and taking appropriate safety measures.