How wildfire conditions can create pyrocumulus clouds
Heat from the recent wildfires raging in northern Minnesota is so intense, that under the right circumstances, they can actually create storms in the atmosphere.
It's not uncommon to see cumulus clouds — puffy, cotton ball-looking clouds — on fair weather days. But pyrocumulus clouds are caused by heat and fire.
The heat and smoke from the wildfire rises up into the atmosphere. As the air rises, it cools causing clouds to form — called a pyrocumulus cloud.
Now in an unstable atmosphere, these clouds can continue to grow into thunderstorm clouds. Of course, the rain might help but, this can actually make the wildfire worse.
As rain evaporates and rain-cooled air sinks it can cause a strong downburst of wind to push out and spread the fire. The thunderstorm activity can also produce lightning which of course could spark new fires.
How you can help
Donations to support relief for Lake County community members can be made .
Donations can also be mailed to Head of the Lakes United Way (please note it's for wildfire relief): 314 W. Superior St. #750, Duluth, MN 55802.
Donations to support relief for St. Louis County community members can be made .
