What is the vertical speed of downdrafts in mountain waves?

In mountain wave phenomena, downdrafts can be significantly enhanced due to the interaction between strong winds and the topography of mountainous regions. When air flows over mountains, it can create a pattern of oscillating air currents, leading to both updrafts and downdrafts. The maximum vertical speeds of these downdrafts are not uniform; they can be influenced by various factors such as the wind speed, the temperature of the air, and the specific characteristics of the mountain range.

A downdraft speed of 5,000 feet per minute is often representative of severe conditions found in these mountain wave systems. This intensity reflects the potential for rapid vertical motion, which can challenge aircraft operating in the vicinity of mountainous terrain. Understanding these velocities is crucial for pilots, as downdrafts of this magnitude can create turbulence and pose significant risks during flight operations.