Asteroid Dust May Have Ignited Global Firestorms After Dino-Killing Impact

A new study suggests a fine silicate dust layer from the Chicxulub asteroid impact intensified a global heat pulse, igniting widespread fires and killing exposed animals within hours. Researchers estimate surface heating was 3.5 times stronger than earlier models, delivering a thermal dose 17 times lethal to humans. Evidence remains limited to North America, with the study published July 28 in JGR Biogeosciences.