Processes underlying near-cloud turbulence

Abstract

Thunderstorms generate turbulence both within cloudy air and in the clear air surrounding them. Both in-cloud and out-of-cloud turbulence are an aviation hazard, and the latter can pose a risk of unexpected encounters because it is invisible and is unable to be detected using standard on-board radar technology. In recent years there has been a significant improvement in the understanding of out-of-cloud turbulence generation mechanisms, including identifying the importance of breaking atmospheric gravity waves. In this chapter, numerical modelling studies are used to explain the processes leading to turbulence outside of cloud, including near the cloud boundary and above storms. Turbulence n..