crown fire
Definition
A wildfire that spreads through the crowns (tops) of trees or shrubs, often independently of the surface fire below, making it one of the most intense and rapid-spreading types of forest fires.
A forest fire that burns in the tree canopy, advancing from treetop to treetop at high speeds and temperatures, posing extreme challenges for suppression.
Examples
The crown fire tore through the treetops like a furry of caffeinated squirrels on a sugar rush.
Firefighters knew they were in trouble when the surface blaze ignited into a raging crown fire, turning the forest into nature's own laser show.
Avoid camping near dry pines during windy days unless you fancy starring in your own crown fire survival documentary.
The crown fire spread so fast, it outran the news helicopters and became a viral sensation before anyone could pack a picnic.