When avoiding thunderstorms, how far should you stay away from the upwind side?

When avoiding thunderstorms, it is commonly recommended to maintain a distance of at least 3 nautical miles from the upwind side of the storm. This guideline is critical for ensuring safety, as thunderstorms can produce severe turbulence, hail, lightning, and downdrafts, all of which can pose significant hazards to an aircraft. Staying 3 nautical miles away provides a buffer zone that helps pilots avoid these dangerous conditions, particularly since the effects of a thunderstorm can extend beyond the visible precipitation.

Additionally, thunderstorms can generate strong updrafts and downdrafts that may not be immediately apparent from a distance. By adhering to the 3 nautical mile rule, pilots can better ensure that they are not exposed to these hazardous wind conditions, significantly reducing the risk of turbulence or other related incidents. This distance also allows for better navigation around the storm while keeping a safe operating distance from its core, which is typically where the most dangerous weather conditions occur.