How does wildfire smoke travel great distances?

While a wildfire in southwestern Nova Scotia last week affected nearby communities, it might sur-prise you that the smoke from the fire was likely visible in Boston at one point.

The culprit? Wind. But how exactly can wind transport wildfire smoke so far away?

Wind speed and wind direction at the surface play a

big role locally. If the wildfire is releasing large amounts of smoke into the air and winds are strong, then this can force it to blow into nearby communities. If the fire or smoke is less significant and winds are light, it may have a harder time spreading over greater distances.

But how does wildfire smoke survive a journey from Nova Scotia to Boston? Or what about when smoke from fires burning in western Canada ends up in Atlantic Canada? That also happens.

This is where mid-toupper levels winds come into play.

If the wildfire or multiple fires are significant, a large volume of smoke rises into our atmosphere. If significant, it can get so high that it reaches the jet stream in the highest levels of the troposphere.

The fast-moving currents of upper-level wind carry that smoke and, depending on the placement of the jet, can sometimes bring it into our region.

Typically, the smoke aloft is of a lower concentration and high enough not to pose any significant health risks.

But it is what can make a sunny afternoon look hazy and can create vivid displays as the sun rises and sets on the horizon.

Have a weather question you would like answered? Send them to: weather@ saltwire.com.

ZOOM.EARTH Satellite imagery captured wildfire smoke from southwestern N.S. drifting over the Gulf of Maine toward Boston.