What speed do downdrafts in a mature thunderstorm potentially exceed?

In a mature thunderstorm, downdrafts can indeed reach significant speeds that may exceed 2,500 feet per minute. This phenomenon occurs as rain and ice particles within the storm cool the surrounding air, causing it to become denser and sink rapidly. These downdrafts contribute to the overall dynamics of the storm, resulting in strong gusts at the surface once the air reaches the ground.

The potential for downdrafts to exceed this threshold is supported by meteorological studies and observations, indicating that mature thunderstorms, which are fully developed, often exhibit high-velocity downdrafts. Understanding the speed of these downdrafts is crucial for pilots and meteorologists, as they can pose serious hazards during flight operations, including turbulence and wind shear that can impact aircraft performance and safety.