What kind of air conditions are indicated by an inversion?

An inversion indicates stable air conditions. Inversions occur when a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the surface. This situation prevents vertical mixing of the atmosphere, which is a characteristic of stable air. As a result, smoke, pollutants, and moisture often accumulate in the cooler air below, as the warm air above inhibits upward movement. In stable conditions, air is not likely to rise, leading to reduced turbulence and limited fire behavior, as opposed to unstable air which allows for more vigorous activity and vertical mixing. Understanding inversions is crucial in fire management, as they can influence fire behavior and contribute to poor smoke dispersion.