clear-air turbulence

American  

[kleer-air] / ˈklɪərˈɛər /

noun

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

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clear-air turbulence Scientific  

/ klîr′âr′ /

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.

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Etymology

Origin of clear-air turbulence

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

Forecasting turbulence has got better in recent years and while it is not perfect, Prof Williams suggests we can correctly forecast about 75% of clear-air turbulence.

From BBC • Jul. 29, 2025

Instances of moderate or more violent clear-air turbulence have increased by 37% over the north Atlantic Ocean over the last 40 years, according to a 2023 study analyzing data from 1979 to 2020.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 5, 2024

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

From Scientific American • Jul. 1, 2023

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

From BBC • Jun. 12, 2023

But the most dangerous type is clear-air turbulence, which often occurs with no visible warning in the sky ahead.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 2, 2023