Oklahoma City to Memphis Turbulence Forecast

OKC → MEM · 431 miles · ~1h 22m

What to Expect

Your flight from Oklahoma City (OKC) to Memphis (MEM) is a relatively short hop east, and like any flight, it has the potential for some bumps. The first part of your journey crosses the Great Plains, an area known for clear-air turbulence, or CAT, which is caused by shifting air currents high in the atmosphere. As you continue east, you'll be flying over Tornado Alley, which, depending on the time of year, can bring severe convective turbulence. Further along, you'll encounter the Ozark Plateau, and then the Mississippi Valley, both prone to convective turbulence, arising from warm air rising and creating those familiar puffy clouds. Finally, you'll fly over the Southeast Interior before landing in Memphis, another area where convective turbulence can be present. Remember, pilots are highly trained to navigate these weather patterns every day, and turbulence is a normal part of flying.

Between Oklahoma City and Memphis, the route crosses the Great Plains, a vast, flat expanse where clear-air turbulence from jet stream undulations is the primary concern at cruise altitude. The lack of terrain features means mountain wave turbulence is absent, but the jet stream frequently meanders over this region, creating wind shear zones at flight levels.

Turbulence Factors on This Route

• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): The jet stream frequently meanders over the Great Plains, producing wind shear and clear-air turbulence at cruising altitudes.
• Severe Convective Turbulence: Tornado Alley supercells produce some of the most intense convective turbulence in North American aviation.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

The late fall months offer the smoothest rides on this route. The weather is generally more stable as you cross the plains and move east. However, winter, early spring, spring, early summer, and summer are the bumpier times. These seasons bring greater temperature variations and increased instability in the atmosphere. This is especially true as you cross Tornado Alley, which sees the most intense weather during the spring and summer, leading to more convective turbulence as you move toward Memphis.

Tips for This Flight

If possible, booking your flight for the morning is often the best bet. The air tends to be calmer before the day heats up, reducing the chance of convective turbulence. Any turbulence you do experience on this route will likely feel like driving over a bumpy road, or perhaps a bit like being on a boat in gentle waves. To help stay relaxed, choose a seat over the wing, where you'll feel less motion, and remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Deep, slow breaths can work wonders for calming your nerves, and know that the flight crew is there to support you throughout the journey.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.