inversion layer

American  

noun

1. a layer of the atmosphere in which there is a temperature inversion, with the layer tending to prevent the air below it from rising, thus trapping any pollutants that are present.

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Example Sentences

An inversion layer — a weather phenomenon that acts like a lid on the blaze — lifted and the fire “started throwing some spots,” he said, referring to tossing embers that ignite spot fires.

From Los Angeles Times

For Chiang Mai and other northern provinces which experience prolonged high levels of microscopic dust, the season usually begins in late February, when dry weather and an atmospheric inversion layer cause airborne particles to accumulate.

From Seattle Times

This pushed air downwards, creating an inversion layer that trapped the smog close to the ground.

From BBC

Increased winds Tuesday pushed out a smoke inversion layer that had been stifling the blaze and gave fresh oxygen to the flames, McLean said.

From Seattle Times

If the inversion layer is strong, he said, “it’ll trap smoke.”

From Los Angeles Times