Memphis to Spokane Turbulence Forecast

MEM → GEG · 1,660 miles · ~3h 49m

What to Expect

Your flight from Memphis to Spokane cuts across a wide variety of landscapes, each with its own potential for turbulence. Initially, you'll be traversing the Mississippi Valley, the Southeast Interior, and the Ozark Plateau. These areas can experience convective turbulence, which is caused by rising warm air creating unstable conditions, especially during warmer months. As you progress northwest, you'll cross Tornado Alley, which, as the name suggests, can bring severe convective turbulence. Moving further, the Great Plains are known for clear-air turbulence (CAT), a type of turbulence that occurs in the absence of clouds and is caused by differences in air pressure and wind speed. Finally, approaching Spokane, you'll fly over the Northern Rockies, where mountain wave turbulence can occur, caused by air flowing over the mountains. Pilots are very familiar with these patterns and use sophisticated tools to navigate them safely.

The Memphis to Spokane route crosses the Northern Rockies, a rugged expanse of high peaks in Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming. Mountain wave turbulence is frequent here, especially when Pacific storm systems push strong winds over the Continental Divide. Pilots often report moderate chop between 30,000 and 40,000 feet over this region.

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 Northern Rockies generate powerful lee waves when Pacific fronts drive westerly flow across the high terrain.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest possible flight, aim for fall or winter. During these seasons, the convective activity over the Mississippi Valley, the Southeast Interior, the Ozark Plateau, and Tornado Alley tends to be significantly reduced, lessening the chances of turbulence early in the flight. Conversely, spring, early summer, and summer tend to be the bumpiest times to fly this route due to increased convective activity. Winter and early spring can also see more clear-air turbulence over the Great Plains, while late fall and early spring may bring more mountain wave turbulence over the Northern Rockies, though summer can be calm.

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 do experience on this route will likely feel like driving over a series of potholes or speed bumps; it's usually more startling than dangerous. To help stay comfortable, choose a seat over the wing; this area of the plane experiences less motion. Staying well hydrated and practicing deep, calming breaths can also ease anxiety. Remember, the pilots are highly trained and constantly monitoring conditions to ensure a safe and comfortable flight.

Get Your Forecast

Related Routes

See all routes from Memphis or to Spokane.

More from Memphis

More to Spokane

Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.