Greenville to Burbank Turbulence Forecast

GSP → BUR · 2,046 miles · ~4h 36m

What to Expect

The Greenville to Burbank route, heading west over 2046 miles, presents a variety of turbulence possibilities. Initially, you might encounter some mechanical turbulence as you cross the Southern Appalachians, caused by wind interacting with the mountains. Further along, over the Southeast Interior and Mississippi Valley, convective turbulence is common, especially if it's a warm day. This is due to rising warm air. Then, as you approach the Ozark Plateau and especially Tornado Alley, be prepared for the possibility of more intense convective turbulence, although pilots are adept at navigating around these areas. Later in the flight, crossing the Great Plains, clear-air turbulence (CAT) can occur. Finally, as you near your destination, anticipate potential mountain wave turbulence over the Southern Rockies and thermal turbulence over the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, again, influenced by temperature and terrain. Remember, pilots constantly monitor and adjust for these conditions; it's all part of a normal flight.

The Greenville to Burbank 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

• Mechanical Turbulence: The Southern Appalachians produce terrain-induced chop, especially during strong wind events and summer convection over the ridgeline.
• Convective Turbulence: The warm, humid Southeast interior supports frequent thunderstorm development, particularly during afternoon hours.
• 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: The Southern Rockies produce lee waves when southwesterly upper-level winds flow across the terrain.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest possible flight, aim for fall or late fall. During these times, the atmospheric conditions over much of the route tend to be more stable. Winter, summer, spring, early summer, early spring, and late winter tend to have more turbulence. This is largely due to increased convective activity, particularly over the Southeast Interior, Mississippi Valley, Ozark Plateau, and Tornado Alley in the warmer months, and more significant jet stream activity leading to clear-air turbulence (CAT) over the Great Plains in the cooler months. Mountain wave turbulence over the Southern Rockies is also more prevalent during the winter months.

Tips for This Flight

If you're anxious about turbulence, try to book a morning flight, as the air tends to be calmer earlier in the day before the ground heats up. Remember that most turbulence on this route will feel like driving on a bumpy road, or perhaps a mild roller coaster; it's rarely dangerous. To stay comfortable, choose a seat over the wing; it provides a more stable ride. Staying hydrated and practicing deep, slow breathing exercises can also help manage any anxiety you may feel. Remember, the pilots are highly trained to handle these conditions, and your safety is their top priority.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.