The vertical thermal and dynamic structures in synoptic and local scale that contribute to the haze formation are investigated in three-dimensional view. In synoptic scale, heavy haze corresponds to significant horizontal transport by southerly winds or strong vertical stability with descending motion in the layer below ~1500-3000 m. Average meteorological elements below ~1500 m are better indicators of pollutant transport and dispersion than on-surface measurements. The dynamic changes are characterized by ascending motion accompanied by enhanced southerly winds from the surface to above ~1500 m, can transport pollutants from surrounding areas to Beijing, resulting in a rapid increase of PM2.5 within a few or several hours, even when the surface wind remains weak. This explained the debatable question on regional transport under surface stagnant condition and partially approved the important role of regional transport in haze formation. In addition, local mountain-plain breeze circulation is prominent during stable stage of haze episodes. The plain wind in daytime pushes the pollutants to areas along the mountains and then to Beijing, resulting in a day-by-day increase of pollutants. This is different from observation in winter haze events that local pollution accumulation is the main cause for haze worsening in stable meteorological conditions. The coupling effect of easterly winds and local topography can cause special dissipation and formation processes of haze. The orographic effect can uplift haze to higher layers, where PM2.5 is transported to the southeast. Then the polluted plume aloft is carried back to Beijing along the mountain front with southerly winds, merges with surface pollutants by vertical mixing, and finally enhances the next haze episode.