Des Moines to Los Angeles Turbulence Forecast

DSM → LAX · 1,444 miles · ~3h 23m

What to Expect

Your flight from Des Moines (DSM) to Los Angeles (LAX) traverses some interesting terrain, which means a few different kinds of turbulence are possible. You'll start over the Great Plains, where you might encounter clear-air turbulence, or CAT, which is caused by shifting air currents high in the atmosphere. As you approach the Front Range and then cross the Central Rockies, you could experience mountain wave turbulence; this happens when wind flows over the mountains, creating waves of air that can cause bumps. Finally, as you descend toward Los Angeles, you'll cross the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, where thermal turbulence is common; this is caused by rising warm air interacting with cooler air above. Pilots are very familiar with these patterns and constantly monitor conditions to ensure a safe and comfortable flight.

Flights between Des Moines and Los Angeles pass along the Front Range, where the abrupt rise of the Colorado Rockies generates some of the strongest mountain wave turbulence in the continental U.S. Downdrafts east of the ridgeline can be intense, and rotor turbulence near the surface sometimes extends to cruising altitude during high-wind events.

Turbulence Factors on This Route

• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): The jet stream frequently meanders over the Great Plains, producing wind shear and clear-air turbulence at cruising altitudes.
• Mountain Wave Turbulence: Strong westerly winds over the Front Range create oscillating waves that can produce sustained moderate turbulence at jet cruise levels.
• Thermal Turbulence: Extreme desert heating generates strong thermal updrafts that cause low-to-mid-level turbulence, especially in summer afternoons.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest possible flight, aim to travel this route in the fall or winter; these seasons tend to be calmer overall. Winter can still bring some clear-air turbulence, but the mountain wave and thermal effects are typically reduced. Summer can be a bit more turbulent, due to increased thermal activity over the deserts and stronger mountain wave effects. Early spring can also be bumpy, as the atmosphere transitions and weather patterns can be more volatile, potentially affecting clear-air turbulence in the plains.

Tips for This Flight

If possible, booking a morning flight can sometimes mean a slightly smoother ride, as thermal turbulence tends to build up during the afternoon. Any turbulence you experience on this route is most likely to feel like driving over a bumpy road or hitting a few small potholes. Choosing a seat over the wing can offer a bit more stability, as it's closer to the plane's center of gravity. Remember to stay hydrated and focus on slow, deep breaths; you've got this, and the pilots are well-prepared to navigate any bumps along the way.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.