What determines the intensity of turbulence associated with thunderstorms?

The intensity of turbulence associated with thunderstorms is predominantly influenced by the presence of wind shear. Wind shear refers to the variation of wind speed and direction at different altitudes or over very short distances. In thunderstorms, this phenomenon can create highly unstable air masses, leading to violent updrafts and downdrafts. These strong vertical movements are a principal cause of turbulence.

When aircraft encounter areas of significant wind shear, the abrupt changes in wind direction and speed can result in very turbulent conditions. These conditions are often exacerbated by the severe nature of thunderstorms, which can produce strong gust fronts and microbursts that further destabilize the surrounding atmosphere.

While factors like the location of the aircraft, the size of the thunderstorm, and the amount of precipitation can also play roles in a broader understanding of storm dynamics, it is the presence of wind shear that most directly correlates to the intensity of turbulence experienced by the aircraft. This makes wind shear a critical element in the assessment and prediction of turbulent conditions in and around thunderstorms.