clear-air turbulence

[kleer-air]

noun

1. atmospheric turbulence, sometimes severe, occurring in air devoid of clouds or other visible indicators that turbulence might be present. CAT

clear-air turbulence

1. Atmospheric turbulence that occurs under tranquil and cloudless conditions at high altitudes near jet streams, mountain ranges, and developing storm systems. It subjects aircraft to strong updrafts and downdrafts.

Word History and Origins

Origin of clear-air turbulence¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

Convective and orographic are often more avoidable - it is the clear-air turbulence that, as the name might imply, cannot be seen.

From BBC

This clear-air turbulence is impossible to see or predict, and yet can cause damage to aircraft and harm those inside.

From Seattle Times

But clear-air turbulence “is altogether another animal,” according to Doug Moss, a former airline pilot and safety consultant.

From Seattle Times

Over the past four decades clear-air turbulence has increased by up to 55 percent in various regions around the world.

From Scientific American

Severe turbulence is very rare, but clear-air turbulence can come out of the blue, when passengers are not belted in.

From BBC