Convective Turbulence
Convective turbulence is caused by one or more of the following:
- Vertical currents within and around convective clouds
- Growing convective towers that may generate gravity waves
- Dry thermals (unsaturated ascending air)
- Downdraughts associated with precipitation or mid-level cold layers
Turbulence is categorized as light, moderate, or severe.
Pilots try to avoid flying through areas of turbulence because it can cause passenger injuries, cargo damage, and possibly structural damage to aircraft