Climate change blamed for rising turbulence over Europe skies
Scientists from the Italian Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology are raising concerns about increasingly frequent turbulence on European flight routes, especially over the Mediterranean Sea, Northern Europe, and the United Kingdom. This is believed to be an effect of climate change.
Italian researchers from the Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology have conducted studies indicating a rise in turbulence incidents along European flight routes, particularly affecting the Mediterranean region, Northern Europe, and the United Kingdom. Based on data from the past few decades, the research results were published in "Geophysical Research Letters."
An analysis of data from the past 44 years shows that climate change has contributed to increased frequency of moderate and severe turbulence incidents. Scientists emphasize that these findings could aid in developing new forecasting methods and strategies for mitigating the impact of turbulence. This will enhance passenger safety and comfort.
Tommaso Alberti from the Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology explains that the so-called clear-air turbulence (CAT), which occurs in a cloudless atmosphere and is difficult to detect and predict, is particularly dangerous. In such cases, turbulent motions arise in the absence of clouds. "This poses a risk for pilots and passengers," Alberti notes.
Seasonal intensification of turbulence
Research has shown that the intensity of turbulence over Europe varies with the season. The phenomenon is more intense in the winter, while in the summer, it is milder. Therefore, a summer vacation flight will be less stressful than a winter skiing trip.
Alberti points out that global warming has significantly contributed to the increase in turbulence cases in the region. The findings of the Italian researchers may enhance understanding of the impact of climate change on flight conditions and lead to the development of more effective strategies for managing this phenomenon.
