What is the general cause of wind-shear turbulence in thunderstorms?

The presence of rapid updrafts and downdrafts within a thunderstorm is primarily responsible for wind-shear turbulence. Thunderstorms are dynamic weather systems characterized by strong vertical motions. These vertical gusts can rise suddenly and then fall sharply, creating significant changes in wind speed and direction over relatively short distances.

When air is pushed upwards rapidly, it can encounter various layers of the atmosphere, leading to differing wind velocities associated with those layers. Conversely, the downdrafts that descend can spread outwards upon reaching the ground, which further disturbs the surrounding air. These contrasting motions can create significant turbulence, especially in the vicinity of a thunderstorm where the atmosphere is highly unstable.

In contrast, factors such as the downward motion of air in the dissipation stage of a thunderstorm typically results in calmer conditions as the storm loses strength, making it less likely for turbulence to occur. Similarly, stable air conditions surrounding a thunderstorm inhibit the development of strong updrafts and downdrafts, thereby reducing the likelihood of wind shear turbulence. High-pressure systems also generally contribute to stable atmospheric conditions without the potent vertical motion that thunderstorms exhibit. Thus, rapid updrafts and downdrafts are indeed the key drivers of wind-shear turbulence in thunderstorms.