What is the primary hazard associated with thunderstorms?

The primary hazard associated with thunderstorms is turbulence. Thunderstorms create severe and unpredictable air movements in their vicinity, which can significantly affect the performance and control of an aircraft. This turbulence can manifest as downdrafts, updrafts, or gust fronts, leading to violent changes in altitude and airspeed. Pilots must be particularly cautious of turbulence when flying near or through thunderstorms, as it can pose a serious risk to both aircraft stability and passenger safety.

Heavy rainfall, lightning strikes, and strong winds are indeed hazards associated with thunderstorms; however, turbulence is considered the most immediate threat to pilots during flight. This is due to the challenge it poses in maintaining aircraft control, making it critical for pilots to be aware of and navigate around thunderstorms to avoid these dangerous conditions. Understanding the dynamics of turbulence helps pilots prepare for and mitigate the risks posed by sudden and extreme changes in airflow associated with thunderstorm activity.