Wildfires Can Generate Tornadoes, Lightning and Other Extreme Weather, Sometimes Miles From the Flames

Wildfires Can Generate Tornadoes, Lightning and Other Extreme Weather, Sometimes Miles From the Flames

By Yunyao Li, University of Texas at Arlington We often think about weather controlling wildfires: dry air, heat, wind and lightning help determine when fires start and how quickly they spread. However, once a wildfire becomes intense enough, the relationship can flip. Instead of simply responding to the weather, the fire begins to create its own weather. I study wildfires and air quality at the University of Texas at Arlington. Here are four k…