Chasing Fire Clouds in Utah

NASA’s INSPYRE mission is deploying aircraft, including the ER-2 and NSF/NCAR’s GV, to study pyrocumulonimbus (pyroCb) clouds—massive, smoke-filled thunderheads generated by wildfires. These clouds can propel particles and gases into the stratosphere, where smoke may linger for months or years, influencing atmospheric conditions. Researchers aim to understand how pyroCbs form and their broader environmental impact, particularly their role in ozone depletion and climate regulation.

On August 3, 2026, the GV aircraft sampled smoke from Utah’s Widemouth 2 fire, which had grown rapidly due to intense winds and dry conditions. Satellite data revealed two distinct pyroCb pulses, with cloud tops reaching temperatures below −40°C, indicating penetration into the stratosphere. The event followed an earlier, unusual pre-dawn pyroCb, highlighting the unpredictable nature of these phenomena and complicating firefighting efforts.

While satellites routinely detect pyroCbs by measuring cloud-top temperatures, direct sampling by aircraft provides critical data on smoke composition and altitude. Wildfires produce about 70 pyroCbs annually, with some injecting particles rivaling those from volcanic eruptions. Scientists are investigating why only a fraction of fires generate pyroCbs and how to improve forecasting to assist emergency responders.

Despite over 700 documented pyroCb events since the early 2000s, many questions remain about their behavior and long-term effects. Researchers note that pyroCbs can produce lightning, hail, and heavy rain, posing additional hazards. The INSPYRE team’s findings may help refine climate models and improve wildfire management strategies by addressing gaps in current understanding.