Seattle to New Orleans Turbulence Forecast

SEA → MSY · 2,083 miles · ~4h 40m

What to Expect

The Seattle to New Orleans route offers a diverse flying experience because it crosses so many geographic features. Departing Seattle, you might experience some Mountain Wave Turbulence as you cross the Cascades. Further along the Pacific Coast, you could encounter Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT). Expect more Mountain Wave Turbulence as you cross the Northern Rockies, Central Rockies, and Front Range. Once over the Great Plains, there's a chance of Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT) again. As you approach New Orleans, particularly over Tornado Alley and the Mississippi Valley, be prepared for potential Severe Convective Turbulence and Convective Turbulence. Finally, the Gulf Coast can bring Convective Turbulence. Remember, pilots are highly trained to navigate these well-understood weather patterns. They use onboard radar, pilot reports, and forecasts to choose the smoothest path possible.

The flight between Seattle and New Orleans passes over the Cascades, the volcanic mountain chain stretching from northern California through Washington. When moist Pacific air is forced up and over the Cascades, it creates both orographic turbulence and downstream wave activity. The terrain is especially steep near major volcanoes like Mount Rainier, amplifying the effect.

Turbulence Factors on This Route

• Mountain Wave Turbulence: The Cascades create lee waves and orographic turbulence, especially when Pacific weather systems push moist air over the range.
• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): Pacific jet streaks arriving onshore drive upper-level clear-air turbulence along the West Coast.
• Severe Convective Turbulence: Tornado Alley supercells produce some of the most intense convective turbulence in North American aviation.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest flight, aim to travel in the summer or early fall. During these times, the atmosphere tends to be more stable, reducing the likelihood of significant turbulence over the Rockies and the Great Plains. Fall, winter, early spring, late fall, spring, early summer and summer can be bumpier, particularly when crossing the mountainous regions. Spring and summer can bring thunderstorms over Tornado Alley and the Mississippi Valley, contributing to convective turbulence near the Gulf Coast.

Tips for This Flight

If possible, choose a morning flight; the air is often calmer then, especially during warmer months when afternoon thunderstorms are more common. Any turbulence you experience on this route is most likely to feel like driving on a slightly bumpy road, or perhaps a sudden jolt like hitting a pothole. To stay comfortable, choose a seat over the wing; this area experiences less motion. Stay hydrated and focus on slow, deep breaths, reminding yourself that the pilots are skilled professionals trained to ensure a safe and comfortable flight.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.