Memphis to Los Angeles Turbulence Forecast

MEM → LAX · 1,615 miles · ~3h 44m

What to Expect

Flying from Memphis (MEM) to Los Angeles (LAX) means crossing a diverse range of landscapes, and each one has its own potential for turbulence. Departing Memphis, the flight first traverses the Mississippi Valley, the Southeast Interior, and the Ozark Plateau, areas prone to convective turbulence, especially when warm, moist air rises. Then, you'll cross Tornado Alley, where severe convective turbulence can occur, particularly during storm season. Further west, over the Great Plains, expect the possibility of clear-air turbulence (CAT), which is often unexpected but generally not severe. As you approach the Rockies, mountain wave turbulence may be present, caused by air flowing over the mountains. Finally, nearing Los Angeles, the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts can generate thermal turbulence, a bumpiness resulting from rising warm air. Pilots are constantly monitoring and managing these conditions, and turbulence is a normal part of air travel across this route.

The Memphis to Los Angeles 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

• Convective Turbulence: The Mississippi Valley is a breeding ground for squall lines and mesoscale convective systems that produce widespread turbulence.
• 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.
• 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?

The fall months and late fall generally offer the smoothest flights on this route, as the transition seasons bring more stable air masses. Winter and late winter are also known to be quite smooth. However, spring and early summer can be bumpier because of increased convective activity over the Mississippi Valley, the Southeast Interior, and the Ozark Plateau. Summer also sees increased thermal activity in the deserts, and early spring can bring severe weather in Tornado Alley. The potential for mountain wave turbulence near the Rockies exists throughout the year, but is often more pronounced during the colder months when strong winds aloft are more common.

Tips for This Flight

If you're concerned about turbulence, consider booking your MEM to LAX flight for an early morning departure, as the air is often calmer before the day heats up. Any turbulence you encounter along this route typically feels like driving over potholes or small bumps in the road; it's often more unsettling than dangerous. For added comfort, select a seat over the wing of the aircraft, as this area experiences less motion. Staying well-hydrated can also help you feel more relaxed, so drink plenty of water before and during your flight. Remember that turbulence is a normal part of flying, and the pilots are well-trained to handle it safely.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.