What is a dry microburst?

A dry microburst is characterized by a phenomenon where a strong downdraft of air descends rapidly through the atmosphere and tends to evaporate before reaching the Earth's surface, resulting in little to no precipitation at ground level. This rapid downward movement of air often creates a sudden and intense wind burst that can pose significant hazards to aircraft during takeoff and landing, as it can lead to sudden changes in wind direction and speed.

The term "dry" reflects the absence of significant moisture at the surface. This is crucial because the evaporation of precipitation before it reaches the ground allows for the rapid cooling of air that contributes to the downward rush of wind. The intense downdraft that occurs in a dry microburst can be extremely destructive, making it important for pilots and weather forecasters to recognize this condition.

Understanding the characteristics of a dry microburst is essential, especially for those in the aviation industry, as it highlights the importance of weather awareness during flight operations.