A macroburst lasts how long and extends how far horizontally?

A macroburst is a powerful and localized downdraft that descends from a thunderstorm and can cause significant damage and turbulence. The duration of a macroburst typically ranges from 5 to 20 minutes, which allows for the release of substantial amounts of energy in that short period. This sudden, intense downdraft can be quite impactful, and the horizontal extent is significant, often reaching 2 nautical miles or more.

This characteristic range is critical for pilots, as it indicates the potential for serious wind shear and turbulence in the vicinity of thunderstorms. Understanding this behavior is essential for ensuring safety during flight operations around storm-affected areas. The combination of duration and horizontal reach makes the phenomenon especially hazardous for aviation, as it can affect flight paths and landing procedures.