Albuquerque to Memphis Turbulence Forecast

ABQ → MEM · 940 miles · ~2h 23m

What to Expect

The Albuquerque to Memphis route, heading east for about two and a half hours, does cross some interesting geographic features that can contribute to turbulence. Initially, you'll be flying over the Southern Rockies, where mountain wave turbulence is possible; this is caused by wind flowing over the mountains, creating waves in the air. Once over the Great Plains, clear-air turbulence, or CAT, may occur; this is often caused by changes in wind speed and direction at high altitudes. You might also encounter the edges of Tornado Alley, where severe convective turbulence can happen, particularly if there are thunderstorms. Later, as you approach Memphis, the flight path will go over the Ozark Plateau and the Mississippi Valley; in this region, convective turbulence is common, especially during warmer months, due to rising warm air. And finally, you'll pass over the Southeast Interior, where convective turbulence is also possible. Remember, pilots are trained to navigate these conditions, and modern aircraft are built to withstand significant turbulence. These are normal weather patterns and the route is routinely flown safely.

The Albuquerque to Memphis route passes over the Southern Rockies in New Mexico and southern Colorado. While somewhat lower than the peaks to the north, these mountains still produce notable mountain wave turbulence, particularly when strong southwesterly winds aloft align perpendicular to the ridgeline.

Turbulence Factors on This Route

• Mountain Wave Turbulence: The Southern Rockies produce lee waves when southwesterly upper-level winds flow across the terrain.
• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): The jet stream frequently meanders over the Great Plains, producing wind shear and clear-air turbulence at cruising altitudes.
• Severe Convective Turbulence: Tornado Alley supercells produce some of the most intense convective turbulence in North American aviation.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

The smoothest flights between Albuquerque and Memphis tend to be in the late fall. During this period, the risk of convective turbulence over the Ozark Plateau, the Mississippi Valley, and the Southeast Interior is reduced. Late winter, spring, early summer, and summer, however, can be bumpier; this is because warmer temperatures increase the likelihood of convective turbulence in the eastern parts of the route, and mountain wave turbulence is most common during the winter months. The edges of Tornado Alley are also more turbulent in the spring.

Tips for This Flight

For the calmest flight, try to book a morning flight; the air tends to be more stable earlier in the day, reducing the chances of convective turbulence. If you do experience turbulence, remember it typically feels like driving over a bumpy, unpaved road. Choose a seat over the wing; these seats experience less motion than those at the front or rear of the plane. Staying well-hydrated and practicing deep, slow breathing can also help you feel more relaxed. Modern planes are built to withstand far more turbulence than you'll likely experience, so try to focus on that reassuring fact.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.