What speed do downdrafts in a mature thunderstorm potentially exceed?

In a mature thunderstorm, downdrafts are a significant feature that can have serious implications for aviation and weather-related hazards. The speed of these downdrafts can be quite intense due to the rapid cooling of air as precipitation falls, leading to a strong downward motion. It's well established in meteorological studies that downdrafts in mature thunderstorms can exceed 2,500 feet per minute. This level of downward air movement is particularly dangerous for aircraft, as it can lead to severe turbulence and loss of control if encountered.

While downdrafts can approach even higher speeds, such as 3,500 or 4,500 feet per minute in extreme cases, the threshold of 2,500 feet per minute is a commonly accepted benchmark among meteorologists and aviation professionals for the potential strength of these downdrafts. This benchmark reflects the intensity typically encountered in storms that are fully developed and mature, making it a crucial figure for understanding thunderstorm dynamics and for safety measures in aviation.