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 • Sep. 8, 2025

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 • Feb. 15, 2024

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

From BBC • Dec. 5, 2023

An inversion layer over the fire hasn’t lifted for several days, clamping down smoke and also suppressing fire activity, he said.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 17, 2021

This layer of warm, moist air is known as an inversion layer, and it can do all kinds of crazy things to a radar wave.

From The Report on Unidentified Flying Objects by Ruppelt, Edward J.