"The smoke plume of that fire extended some 14km (8.6 miles) into the air and even prevented us from getting aircraft overhead because of just how dangerous and bumpy the conditions were, " RFS Deputy Commissioner Rob Rogers was quoted by ABC News as saying.

BBC: News - Australia bushfire destroys homes and damages observatory

Another one executes a terrifying circle in the air before resuming its upward flight, a plume of smoke and fire thundering out behind it.

FORBES: "Let's Punch A Hole In the Sky"

Then, the rebels unleashed their anti-aircraft guns and one of the jets erupted in a flash of fire, hurtling downwards and setting off a thick plume of smoke.

WSJ: Gadhafi Forces Enter Benghazi

The investigators watched as the fire quickly consumed the couch, sending upward a plume of smoke that hit the ceiling and spread outward, creating a thick layer of hot gases overhead an efficient radiator of heat.

NEWYORKER: Trial by Fire