Short Wave The Science Behind Wildfire Smoke
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Jan 14, 2025 
Jessica Gilman, an atmospheric chemist at NOAA, dives into the complex world of wildfire smoke and its alarming impact on air quality and public health. She unpacks the composition of smoke and its hazardous particles, highlighting severe health risks linked to inhalation. Gilman also discusses the dual effects of smoke on climate change and how it travels over long distances. Listeners get valuable tips on reducing smoke exposure and learn about the relationship between shifting climate patterns and increasing wildfire seasons.
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Smoke Composition
- Wildfire smoke contains hundreds of gases and a wide range of particles.
- These particles vary in size, from larger ash and dust to tiny particles a millionth of a meter in diameter.
PM2.5 Danger
- PM2.5, fine particles 50 times smaller than a grain of salt, are a primary health concern in wildfire smoke.
- These tiny particles can travel deep into lungs, causing various health problems.
Nighttime Smoke Behavior
- Wildfire smoke behaves differently at night, settling closer to the ground due to cooler temperatures and a shallower boundary layer.
- This poses a risk, as people often open windows at night, increasing smoke exposure.