SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ifr-gust-front
What is the arc-shaped leading edge of cool thunderstorm downdraft air called?
A gust front.
- A warm front
- A gust front ✔
- A squall line
Why: Downdraft air from the storm spreads out along the surface, well ahead of the cell, as a mass of cool, gusty air. Its leading edge acts like a miniature cold front and can trigger new cells.
Huh, didn't know that: Updraft speeds in the towering cumulus stage can exceed 3,000 feet per minute.
A gust front: when the storm sends a cold shoulder ahead of itself.
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References
Answer: A gust front. Downdraft air from the storm spreads out along the surface, well ahead of the cell, as a mass of cool, gusty air. Its leading edge acts like a miniature cold front and can trigger new cells.
- FAA Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28B) www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/FAA-H-8083-28B.pdf
The arc-shaped leading edge of downdraft air resembles a miniature cold front and is called a gust front.
Checked 2026-10-11. - FAA Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28B) www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/FAA-H-8083-28B.pdf
Updraft speeds can exceed 3,000 fpm.
Checked 2026-10-11. - FAA Aviation Weather Handbook (FAA-H-8083-28B) www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/FAA-H-8083-28B.pdf
A continuous line of thunderstorms, or squall line, may form along or ahead of the front.
Checked 2026-10-11.
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