Rochester to Burbank Turbulence Forecast

ROC → BUR · 2,256 miles · ~5h 1m

What to Expect

Flying from Rochester to Burbank, you'll experience a variety of conditions over diverse terrain. The initial leg over the Northern Appalachians can bring mechanical turbulence, created as wind interacts with the mountains. Crossing the Great Lakes, especially in cooler months, lake-effect turbulence is possible. As you head west over the Upper Midwest and Great Plains, clear-air turbulence (CAT) might occur, caused by shifting air currents at higher altitudes. Approaching the Front Range and Central Rockies, mountain wave turbulence can develop as air flows over the mountains. Finally, over the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, expect thermal turbulence, which results from rising warm air. Pilots are well-versed in navigating these predictable weather patterns, using onboard radar and reports from other aircraft to ensure a safe and comfortable flight.

Flights between Rochester and Burbank pass along the Front Range, where the abrupt rise of the Colorado Rockies generates some of the strongest mountain wave turbulence in the continental U.S. Downdrafts east of the ridgeline can be intense, and rotor turbulence near the surface sometimes extends to cruising altitude during high-wind events.

Turbulence Factors on This Route

• Mechanical Turbulence: The Northern Appalachians generate low-level mechanical turbulence during strong post-frontal northwest winds.
• Lake-Effect Turbulence: The Great Lakes produce lake-effect convection and low-level wind shear from land-water temperature contrasts.
• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): The Upper Midwest sits beneath frequent polar jet stream intrusions, producing clear-air turbulence at cruising altitudes.
• Mountain Wave Turbulence: Strong westerly winds over the Front Range create oscillating waves that can produce sustained moderate turbulence at jet cruise levels.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

The smoothest flights on this route are usually in the early fall, fall, and winter. During these times, the thermal activity over the deserts is less intense, and the lake-effect turbulence is minimized, leading to gentler conditions. Conversely, winter, late fall, early winter, early spring, and summer can be bumpier. The combination of strong jet streams creating clear-air turbulence, mountain wave effects from the Rockies, and thermal turbulence in the deserts can contribute to a less smooth ride during these seasons.

Tips for This Flight

If possible, consider booking your flight from Rochester to Burbank for a morning departure, as thermal turbulence over the deserts tends to build throughout the day. Any turbulence you might encounter along this route will likely feel like driving over a bumpy road or hitting a few unexpected potholes. To stay comfortable, choose a seat over the wing, where movement is less noticeable, and remember to stay well-hydrated; dehydration can amplify any feelings of unease. Focus on slow, deep breaths, knowing that the pilots are expertly managing the flight and any conditions they encounter.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.