Originally published in 2001
Tips For In-Flight Awareness Of Thunderstorms
- Monitor AWOS, ASOS and ATIS frequencies as you fly. Listen for changing ceiling and visibility conditions and high (above 60 degrees Fahrenheit) dew points. Some stations may even have lightning reporting capability.
- Fly IFR, or use VFR advisories/flight following if available. Having a frequency already at hand lets you listen in on any weather-related diversions and ask for advice about routing around storm cells and buildups.
- Keep a VOR tuned to HIWAS (hazardous in-flight weather advisory service). Note the VORS that broadcast HIWAS and listen to the recordings for such weather advisories as convective sigmets and airmets.
- Depart early in the morning — like 5 or 6 a.m. By leaving well before the heat of the day you can maximize your chance of avoiding the worst of the buildups.
- Maintain visual separation from building cumulus and towering cumulus clouds, even if you are on an IFR flight plan. Keep at least 20 nm away.
- Don’t fly beneath a thunderstorm.
- Don’t try to outclimb a building cumulus or fly above a thunderstorm.
- Don’t try to beat a thunderstorm to an airport.
- Periodically check in with flight watch (122.MHz) for weather updates.
- Use, and know how to use, lightning detection equipment and/or airborne weather radar.
Source: AOPA