Evaluation of the temperature profile induced by fire is of great significance to assess the tunnel fire risk and damage. In this work, the effect of plume bifurcation on the air entrainment process is analyzed theoretically, quantified with a set of numerical simulations, and validated by full-scale tunnel fire test data. Results show that the high ventilation-induced plume bifurcation will lead to two hitting points distributed symmetrically along the centre line, increase the air entrainment path, and thus, decrease the maximum temperature. Finally, a semiempirical model is proposed to evaluate the maximum temperature rise with different fire heat release rates and ventilation conditions considering the smoke plume multi-dimensional movement characteristics. This study provides a new vision to understand the plume behaviors in tunnel fire scenario and extends the applicability of classical tunnel fire dynamic theory.