What is the typical duration of a microburst?

A microburst is a concentrated downdraft of air within a thunderstorm that can cause severe weather phenomena, particularly within the vicinity of an airport. The typical duration of a microburst is indeed seldom longer than 15 minutes. This short lifespan is what makes them particularly hazardous, as they can occur rapidly and with little warning, resulting in sudden and severe wind changes that can affect aircraft during takeoff or landing.

Understanding the characteristics of microbursts is critical for flight safety. Pilots must be aware that the intense wind shear associated with microbursts can produce significant challenges in aircraft performance, especially at low altitudes. This brief but intense manifestation of atmospheric instability exemplifies the need for pilots to remain vigilant for weather-related hazards, especially near thunderstorms.