Burbank to Raleigh-Durham Turbulence Forecast

BUR → RDU · 2,226 miles · ~4h 57m

What to Expect

Flying from Burbank to Raleigh-Durham, you'll experience a wide range of atmospheric conditions. Shortly after takeoff, you'll cross the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, where thermal turbulence, caused by rising warm air, is common. As you continue east, you'll encounter the Southern Rockies, where mountain wave turbulence can occur as air flows over the peaks. Further along, over the Great Plains, you might feel clear-air turbulence (CAT), which is often unexpected but generally mild. Depending on the time of year, you could experience severe convective turbulence around Tornado Alley. Over the Ozark Plateau and Mississippi Valley, convective turbulence can pop up too. Finally, as you approach your destination, expect frontal turbulence over the Ohio Valley and mechanical turbulence over the Southern Appalachians. Experienced pilots are very familiar with these patterns, constantly monitoring conditions and adjusting altitude or course to ensure a safe and comfortable flight.

The Burbank to Raleigh-Durham 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 early fall seasons generally offer the smoothest rides on this route. Cooler temperatures mean less thermal activity over the deserts, and the risk of convective storms is lower over Tornado Alley and the Ozarks. Summer, late winter, spring, early spring, early summer, and even summer again tend to be the bumpiest times, as the deserts heat up, convective storms form, and strong winds interact with the mountains. Spring especially can bring significant weather volatility across the Great Plains, including severe convective turbulence, while wintertime frontal systems can create turbulence over the Ohio Valley.

Tips for This Flight

For the smoothest possible flight, aim for a morning departure; the atmosphere tends to be more stable earlier in the day. Most turbulence you're likely to encounter on this route will feel like driving over a series of small, shallow potholes; occasional bumps are normal. To enhance your comfort, choose a seat over the wing, where motion is typically less noticeable, and remember to stay well-hydrated. Take slow, deep breaths; knowing that your pilots are prepared for these conditions will help you feel in control and confident during your flight.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.