Los Angeles to Seattle Turbulence Forecast

LAX → SEA · 955 miles · ~2h 25m

What to Expect

The Los Angeles to Seattle flight can be a mixed bag in terms of bumps, mainly because of the terrain you'll be crossing. Shortly after takeoff, you'll encounter the Sierra Nevada mountains. The winds flowing over these mountains can sometimes create what's called mountain wave turbulence, like boat wakes in the sky, but pilots are very skilled at navigating these areas. Further along the route, you'll cross the Cascades, which can create similar mountain wave effects. Nearing Seattle, you'll be flying over the Pacific Coast, an area sometimes prone to clear-air turbulence, or CAT. CAT is caused by differing air masses colliding at high altitudes. This is generally unexpected, but never dangerous. All these effects are routinely monitored, and pilots will take the smoothest possible course.

Flights between Los Angeles and Seattle cross the Sierra Nevada, a steep mountain barrier in eastern California. The Sierra generates some of the most intense rotor and wave turbulence in the world — the famous "Sierra Wave" can reach the stratosphere. East-side downdrafts are especially sharp, and flights into or out of Reno or the Central Valley often feel the effects.

Turbulence Factors on This Route

• Mountain Wave Turbulence: The Sierra Nevada produces the well-known Sierra Wave, one of the strongest mountain wave systems in North America.
• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): Pacific jet streaks arriving onshore drive upper-level clear-air turbulence along the West Coast.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the calmest flight, aim for the summer or early fall months. During these times, the atmospheric conditions are generally more stable over the mountains, reducing the likelihood of mountain wave turbulence. Winter, spring, and early spring tend to be bumpier. During these seasons, stronger winds interact with the Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountain ranges, increasing the chance of turbulence. The change in seasons causes differing air masses to converge off the Pacific Coast, leading to areas of clear-air turbulence as well.

Tips for This Flight

Booking a morning flight will often give you a slightly smoother ride since the air tends to be calmer earlier in the day. Any turbulence you experience on this route is most likely to feel like driving over a series of shallow potholes or the gentle rocking of a boat. To help stay comfortable, choose a seat over the wing; this area experiences less motion than the front or rear of the plane. Remember to stay hydrated and breathe deeply. Pilots are highly trained professionals, and your safety is their top priority. They will always navigate to ensure the most comfortable flight possible.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.