A phenomenon known as a "fire cloud" is making wildfires in parts of Europe more severe, according to a report from The Guardian. These clouds, technically called pyrocumulonimbus, form when intense heat from a wildfire forces air and smoke high into the atmosphere, creating a thunderstorm-like system that can generate lightning and strong winds.
The Guardian reports that these fire clouds can ignite new blazes miles away from the original fire, effectively spreading the wildfire faster and making it harder for firefighters to contain. The phenomenon has been observed during recent wildfires in France and Spain, where extreme heat and dry conditions have fueled large outbreaks.
In France, a wildfire has advanced to within nine miles of the city of Bordeaux, the mayor warned, as reported by the BBC. Witnesses in both France and Spain described a "wall of flames" and spoke of fear and stress, the BBC added. The Guardian also noted that authorities in both countries are racing to contain the fires before a fresh heatwave arrives.
The Financial Times described the wildfires as "violent" and noted they are raging close to major cities. The combination of fire clouds and the approaching heatwave is raising concerns that the situation could worsen in the coming days.
Authorities are monitoring weather conditions closely as the next heatwave is expected to increase fire risk across the region.
