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Wind Shear and the Temp/Dewpoint Spread

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • A high temperature/dewpoint spread (15-30°C) when convective storms are present indicates a high risk of dangerous wind shear for light airplanes.
  • Wind shear can cause a sudden decrease in airspeed and lift, potentially leading to an unrecoverable stall.
  • Even after convective storms pass, a large temperature/dewpoint spread suggests a continued risk of wind shear from microbursts.
  • Pilots should consider delaying takeoffs or landings when a high temperature/dewpoint spread is noted near convective activity to allow wind shear to dissipate.
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We all know that a very small temperature/dewpoint spread creates the perfect conditions for low visibility. But did you also know that a very high temperature/dewpoint spread associated with convective activity can be an indication of an imminent danger to light airplanes?

When the spread between the air temperature and dewpoint is between 15 and 30 degrees C and convective storms are in the area, that’s a recipe for wind shear.

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