Albuquerque to Myrtle Beach Turbulence Forecast

ABQ → MYR · 1,577 miles · ~3h 39m

What to Expect

Your flight from Albuquerque to Myrtle Beach, heading east, crosses a variety of landscapes known for specific types of turbulence. Immediately after takeoff, you might encounter mountain wave turbulence as you fly over the Southern Rockies. As you cross the Great Plains, expect the possibility of clear-air turbulence (CAT), which can occur even in seemingly clear skies. Further east, you'll be flying over Tornado Alley, so keep in mind that severe convective turbulence is possible, especially during certain times of the year. As you progress, the Ozark Plateau and Mississippi Valley could bring convective turbulence, and the Southeast Interior will pose a similar risk. Finally, approaching Myrtle Beach, you'll cross the Southern Appalachians, where mechanical turbulence can occur. It's important to remember that pilots are trained to navigate these conditions; these are well-understood weather patterns.

The Albuquerque to Myrtle Beach 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.
• Mechanical Turbulence: The Southern Appalachians produce terrain-induced chop, especially during strong wind events and summer convection over the ridgeline.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest possible flight, aim for late fall or summer. During these seasons, the atmospheric conditions are generally more stable across the country, reducing the likelihood of significant turbulence. Late winter, spring, early spring, early summer, and summer tend to be bumpier because of increased convective activity (thunderstorms) in Tornado Alley and across the Ozark Plateau, Mississippi Valley, and Southeast Interior. Also, mountain wave turbulence over the Rockies can be more pronounced in winter and early spring. This is all completely normal.

Tips for This Flight

If you're concerned about turbulence, booking your flight for the morning tends to be best; the air is usually calmer before it heats up later in the day. Any turbulence you experience on this route will likely feel like driving over a bumpy road or a sudden, unexpected dip. To stay comfortable, choose a seat over the wing, which is often the most stable part of the plane. Remember to stay hydrated and try some deep breathing exercises to help you relax, knowing that the flight crew is well-prepared to handle any in-flight conditions.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.