Tucson to Des Moines Turbulence Forecast

TUS → DSM · 1,153 miles · ~2h 48m

What to Expect

Your flight from Tucson to Des Moines crosses diverse landscapes that can lead to different types of turbulence. Initially, you'll encounter thermal turbulence rising from the hot Mojave and Sonoran Deserts. As you move northeast, you will cross the Southern Rockies where mountain wave turbulence can occur as air flows over the peaks. Further along the route, especially over the Great Plains, clear-air turbulence (CAT) is possible, caused by shifting air currents high in the atmosphere. Finally, the flight path crosses Tornado Alley, which can create severe convective turbulence, particularly during certain times of the year. These are all common weather phenomena that pilots are trained to handle, using onboard radar and reports from other aircraft to navigate the conditions safely.

The Tucson to Des Moines 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

• Thermal Turbulence: Extreme desert heating generates strong thermal updrafts that cause low-to-mid-level turbulence, especially in summer afternoons.
• Mountain Wave Turbulence: The Southern Rockies produce lee waves when southwesterly upper-level winds flow across the terrain.
• 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 smoothest flights on this route are often in the winter and fall. Summer can be calmer too, especially if you avoid the peak afternoon heat over the deserts. Late winter, spring, early summer, and summer are typically the bumpier seasons because of increased thermal activity over the deserts, stronger jet streams creating clear-air turbulence, and the development of storm systems in Tornado Alley. Spring in particular can be volatile as weather patterns shift, increasing the chance of convective turbulence.

Tips for This Flight

If possible, booking a morning flight may offer a smoother ride, before daytime heating intensifies thermal turbulence over the deserts and storm cells build in Tornado Alley. Most turbulence on this route will likely feel like driving over a slightly bumpy road, or a moderate rocking sensation. To help stay comfortable, choose a seat over the wing for greater stability, stay well-hydrated, and focus on slow, deep breathing; remember that the pilots are constantly monitoring the conditions and are prepared to navigate any bumps along the way.

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Forecasts based on NOAA HRRR and GFS atmospheric model data.