Spokane to Chicago Midway Turbulence Forecast

GEG → MDW · 1,507 miles · ~3h 31m

What to Expect

The Spokane to Chicago Midway route, heading east, crosses a wide variety of terrain that can create turbulence. Immediately after takeoff, you might feel some bumps as you cross the Northern Rockies, where mountain wave turbulence is common. As you cross the Great Plains and the Upper Midwest, be prepared for clear-air turbulence, or CAT, which is caused by shifting air currents at high altitudes. As you approach Chicago, the plane will cross the Great Lakes, where lake-effect turbulence can occur, especially if there's a big difference in temperature between the air and the water. Finally, weather systems moving across the Ohio Valley can lead to frontal turbulence. All these types are well-understood and constantly monitored by pilots and air traffic control. They adjust the flight path and altitude as needed to ensure a safe and comfortable flight.

The Spokane to Chicago Midway route crosses the Northern Rockies, a rugged expanse of high peaks in Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming. Mountain wave turbulence is frequent here, especially when Pacific storm systems push strong winds over the Continental Divide. Pilots often report moderate chop between 30,000 and 40,000 feet over this region.

Turbulence Factors on This Route

• Mountain Wave Turbulence: The Northern Rockies generate powerful lee waves when Pacific fronts drive westerly flow across the high terrain.
• Clear-Air Turbulence (CAT): The jet stream frequently meanders over the Great Plains, producing wind shear and clear-air turbulence at cruising altitudes.
• Lake-Effect Turbulence: The Great Lakes produce lake-effect convection and low-level wind shear from land-water temperature contrasts.
• Frontal Turbulence: The Ohio Valley is a preferred storm track where frontal boundaries and embedded convection create turbulence year-round.

When Is This Route Bumpiest?

For the smoothest possible flight, aim to travel this route in the summer or early fall. During these times, the weather patterns are generally more stable over the Rockies, the Plains, and the Great Lakes. Late fall, winter, early spring, and early winter tend to be bumpier. The Rockies generate more mountain waves in the colder months. There is also more temperature contrast creating lake-effect turbulence, and stronger weather fronts cross the Ohio Valley during those seasons.

Tips for This Flight

If you're anxious about turbulence, book your flight for as early in the day as possible. Morning air tends to be calmer. Any turbulence you encounter on this route will probably feel like driving on a road with small potholes, or a boat gently rocking on the water. Choosing a seat over the wing is often more stable. Remember to stay hydrated, and focus on slow, deep breaths; knowing that the pilots are well-prepared to handle any conditions should help you relax and enjoy the journey.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.