Des Moines to Buffalo Turbulence Forecast

DSM → BUF · 769 miles · ~2h 2m

What to Expect

The Des Moines to Buffalo route, though not always perfectly smooth, features bumps that pilots are well-accustomed to navigating. Expect some potential for "convective turbulence" as you depart Des Moines and cross the Mississippi Valley; this type of turbulence is due to rising warm air and is most common during warmer months. Further east, over the Upper Midwest, you might encounter "clear-air turbulence" (CAT), which, as the name suggests, occurs even in clear skies. As you approach Buffalo, flying over the Great Lakes, be prepared for "lake-effect turbulence", caused by cold air moving over warmer lake waters. Finally, as the flight crosses the Northern Appalachians, there is potential for "mechanical turbulence", which forms when wind encounters the mountains. Remember, pilots constantly monitor weather conditions and adjust altitude or route to minimize any turbulence.

Between Des Moines and Buffalo, the flight path crosses the Great Lakes region. The lakes create their own micro-climate: cold-season lake-effect convection can produce localized but sharp turbulence at lower altitudes, while strong temperature contrasts between the water and surrounding land generate low-level wind shear, particularly during fall and early winter.

Turbulence Factors on This Route

• Lake-Effect Turbulence: The Great Lakes produce lake-effect convection and low-level wind shear from land-water temperature contrasts.
• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): The Upper Midwest sits beneath frequent polar jet stream intrusions, producing clear-air turbulence at cruising altitudes.
• Mechanical Turbulence: The Northern Appalachians generate low-level mechanical turbulence during strong post-frontal northwest winds.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

The summer months and early fall generally offer the smoothest flights on this route. The weather patterns that contribute to convective turbulence over the Mississippi Valley are less frequent, and the lake-effect turbulence is usually minimal. Conversely, late fall, early winter, spring, and early summer tend to be the bumpiest times to fly this route. During these seasons, lake-effect turbulence over the Great Lakes is more pronounced, convective turbulence is more common, and the potential for clear-air turbulence is elevated.

Tips for This Flight

If you're concerned about turbulence, booking a morning flight is often your best bet, as the atmosphere tends to be more stable earlier in the day. Any turbulence you might experience on this route is most likely to feel like driving on a bumpy road, or perhaps a boat gently rocking. For extra comfort, consider choosing a seat over the wing, as this area experiences less motion. Remember to stay hydrated, and focus on slow, deep breaths to help you relax. The flight crew is there to ensure your safety and comfort, and they are well-prepared to handle any conditions they encounter.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.