Myrtle Beach to Phoenix Turbulence Forecast

MYR → PHX · 1,896 miles · ~4h 18m

What to Expect

The Myrtle Beach to Phoenix flight is a west-bound journey across varied terrain, so it offers a mix of potential turbulence. Right after takeoff, you might feel some bumps as you cross the Southern Appalachians; this is mechanical turbulence caused by air flowing over the mountains. Then, as you continue west, crossing the Southeast Interior and the Mississippi Valley, there’s a chance of convective turbulence; this is due to rising warm air, especially on sunny days. Further along, over the Ozark Plateau and then notoriously, Tornado Alley, the risk of convective turbulence, potentially severe, increases. As you near your destination, you'll fly over the Southern Rockies, where mountain wave turbulence could be present. Finally, approaching Phoenix, you might experience thermal turbulence over the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts as the hot desert air rises. These are all normal weather patterns pilots are trained to handle.

The Myrtle Beach to Phoenix 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?

For the smoothest flight, aim for fall or late fall. During these periods, the atmosphere is generally more stable. Spring and winter are also relatively smooth, but less consistently so. Summer, and especially early summer, tends to be bumpier due to increased convective activity in the Southeast Interior, Mississippi Valley, and Tornado Alley. Late winter can also be turbulent as cold air masses from the north interact with the Southern Rockies creating mountain wave turbulence.

Tips for This Flight

If possible, booking an early morning flight can sometimes reduce the chance of convective turbulence as the ground hasn't had as much time to heat up. Any turbulence you encounter on this route will likely feel like driving on a road with potholes, rather than anything sudden or jarring. For added comfort, choose a seat over the wing; it's the most stable part of the plane. Remember to stay hydrated and focus on your breathing; you've got this.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.