Since 2005, moderate volcanic eruptions and extreme forest fires have led to an increase in water vapor levels in the stratosphere, a layer of Earth's atmosphere above the troposphere. This increase in stratospheric water vapor is a major concern for climate because it can act as a greenhouse gas, trapping heat and altering ozone chemistry.
Volcanic Eruptions and Forest Fires: Sources of Water Vapor
Volcanoes and forest fires are natural sources of water vapor in the stratosphere. When a volcano erupts, it releases large amounts of gases, including water vapor, into the atmosphere. Similarly, forest fires can release water vapor by burning vegetation. These sources of water vapor can have significant impacts on stratospheric chemistry and, over time, on climate.