If airborne radar indicates an extremely intense thunderstorm echo, what distance should you avoid it by?

When encountering an extremely intense thunderstorm echo on airborne radar, it is advisable to avoid it by a considerable distance to ensure safety. A distance of 20 miles is recommended as a standard practice to steer clear of severe turbulence, lightning, hail, and other hazardous weather phenomena commonly associated with intense thunderstorms.

The reasoning behind this distance is that severe thunderstorms can produce dangerous conditions well beyond the visible storm itself. For example, downdrafts and microbursts can extend several miles from the storm's core, and the electric field that generates lightning can also pose risks at significant distances. Moreover, by maintaining a 20-mile buffer, pilots enhance their ability to avoid turbulent air and other potential hazards, thereby improving safety and comfort during flight.

This distance is particularly important in regions where thunderstorms can grow rapidly or where their effects can be felt well ahead of the visible precipitation. Adhering to this recommendation helps in ensuring that pilots can effectively navigate around severe weather conditions without compromising safety.