Occurs when a construction feature enhances the natural process of heated gas and flames rising. This often results in severe damage and charring inside the construction feature that acted as a chimney. Examples of construction features that can produce a chimney effect include a stairwell, atrium, elevator shaft, laundry chute, dumbwaiter, and skylight shaft.

Source:

Redsicker, David R. and O’Connor, John J. Practical Fire & Arson Investigation (Second Edition). CRC Press. 1997.