Myrtle Beach to Kona Turbulence Forecast

MYR → KOA · 4,752 miles · ~10h 0m

What to Expect

Your Myrtle Beach to Kona flight, a journey heading west for roughly 10 hours and nearly 5000 miles, will likely encounter a variety of turbulence types. Shortly after takeoff, expect possible mechanical turbulence over the Southern Appalachians. As you continue over the Southeast Interior, the Ozark Plateau, and the Mississippi Valley, convective turbulence is common, especially during warmer months. Tornado Alley could bring severe convective turbulence. Moving further west, the Southern Rockies may cause mountain wave turbulence. Crossing the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts might involve thermal turbulence, caused by rising warm air. Finally, the long stretch over the Pacific Ocean can present both oceanic clear-air turbulence and oceanic convection. Remember, pilots are highly trained to navigate these conditions, and turbulence is a normal part of flying; these patterns are well-understood and constantly monitored.

The Myrtle Beach to Kona 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.
• 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 in particular, tend to offer the smoothest rides on this route. Spring, winter, and early summer months are also periods with somewhat less turbulence. However, winter, summer, spring, early summer, late winter, and late summer are generally bumpier due to increased convective activity over the central states and stronger jet streams impacting mountain wave turbulence near the Rockies. Seasonal changes also affect thermal turbulence over the deserts and convection over the Pacific, so weather patterns are ever-changing.

Tips for This Flight

Opting for a morning flight can often mean less convective turbulence. Any turbulence you do experience on this route will likely feel like anything from driving on a slightly bumpy road to hitting a moderate pothole. For extra comfort, choose a seat over the wing, as it's generally the most stable part of the plane, and make sure to stay well hydrated; deep, slow breaths can also help you relax. Remember that the pilots are experts, and the plane is designed to handle turbulence; you’re in good hands.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.