Weather Hazards
Weather Hazards It is no secret that weather presents a challenge to most flights in aviation. You may get fortunate enough to have great weather, but no matter where you are, you’re bound to face some weather adversity. One of the greatest weather hazards are thunderstorms. While most of us know what thunderstorms do for aviation pilots, some don’t know the severity and impact it has on flight, or even the types of storms there are. Within these thunderstorms contain even more hazards. Some of which include icing, tornadoes, and turbulence (FAA, 2013). A concentrated vortex of wind, dust, and debris forms rapidly and can reach violent speeds. Although classified as tornadoes, these vortices must reach the ground to be named “tornado”. If not, they are known as funnel clouds, or if touching water, it’s called a waterspout. These thunderstorms also present a hazard that is not discussed often: diversions and avoidance. Many