Savannah to Phoenix Turbulence Forecast

SAV → PHX · 1,785 miles · ~4h 4m

What to Expect

The Savannah to Phoenix route, heading west for roughly 4 hours, does cross a few zones known for turbulence. Immediately after takeoff, you'll fly over the Southeast Interior and the Mississippi Valley, which can experience convective turbulence, especially during warmer months. Then comes Tornado Alley, infamous for severe convective turbulence, particularly in spring and early summer. As you approach Phoenix, you'll cross the Southern Rockies, where mountain wave turbulence can occur as wind interacts with the peaks. Finally, the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts can create thermal turbulence from rising warm air. Know that pilots are very familiar with these patterns, monitoring weather conditions and adjusting altitude or route to find the smoothest possible path.

The Savannah 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

• 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 calmest flight, aim for late fall or winter. Fall is also generally smooth. During these times, the conditions that cause convective and severe convective turbulence are greatly reduced. Summer, conversely, tends to be the bumpiest, with spring and early summer close behind; this is because of increased convective activity across the Southeast Interior, Mississippi Valley, and Tornado Alley. Mountain wave turbulence in the Rockies is less seasonal, but still a factor to consider year-round.

Tips for This Flight

If possible, book a morning flight; the atmosphere tends to be more stable earlier in the day, before the ground has a chance to heat up and create thermal updrafts. Any turbulence you do experience on this route is most likely to feel like driving over a bumpy road or a moderate jostling, but it is very unlikely to be severe. Choosing a seat over the wing can minimize the sensation of movement. Stay hydrated and focus on slow, steady breathing; remember that the pilots and crew are well-trained to handle any conditions, and they'll keep you informed throughout the flight.

Get Your Forecast

Related Routes

See all routes from Savannah or to Phoenix.

More from Savannah

More to Phoenix

Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.