Burbank to Charleston Turbulence Forecast

BUR → CHS · 2,195 miles · ~4h 53m

What to Expect

Flying east from Burbank to Charleston takes you across a wide variety of landscapes, and each one can contribute to bumps. Immediately after takeoff, you might feel some thermal turbulence rising off the hot Mojave and Sonoran Deserts. As you cross the Southern Rockies, expect the possibility of mountain wave turbulence. Further east, over the Great Plains, there's potential for clear-air turbulence (CAT), and near Tornado Alley, severe convective turbulence is possible. The Ozark Plateau and Mississippi Valley are prone to convective turbulence too, and even the Southeast Interior can experience it. Finally, your landing approach over the Southern Appalachians may involve some mechanical turbulence as the wind interacts with the mountains. Pilots are very familiar with all of these patterns and constantly monitor weather conditions to ensure a safe and comfortable flight, adjusting altitude or course to minimize any turbulence.

The Burbank to Charleston 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

• Thermal Turbulence: Extreme desert heating generates strong thermal updrafts that cause low-to-mid-level turbulence, especially in summer afternoons.
• 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 winter and fall months generally offer the smoothest flights on this route. In winter, the air is typically more stable, reducing thermal and convective activity, and in the fall, the temperature differences are less extreme. Summer tends to be the bumpiest season, mainly due to increased thermal activity over the deserts and convective turbulence across the plains and valleys. Late winter, spring, early spring, and early summer can also bring more turbulence, particularly from mountain waves over the Rockies, and severe convective turbulence in Tornado Alley.

Tips for This Flight

Opting for an early morning flight often leads to a smoother experience because the ground hasn't had as much time to heat up, which lessens thermal turbulence. Any turbulence you do encounter on this Burbank to Charleston route will probably feel like driving on a slightly bumpy road, or perhaps a few stronger jolts like hitting a pothole. Staying well-hydrated can really help minimize any discomfort from the dry cabin air, so remember to drink plenty of water, and know that the crew is there to support you the whole way.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.