What is the minimum distance to maintain from thunderstorms for safe flying?

Maintaining a minimum distance of 20 miles upwind from thunderstorms is essential for safe flying due to the hazardous conditions that can arise from these weather phenomena. Thunderstorms can produce severe turbulence, lightning, hail, and microbursts, all of which pose significant dangers to aircraft. By keeping a distance of at least 20 miles, pilots can avoid the most dangerous effects of the storm, including strong wind shear and sudden changes in weather conditions that might occur even at distances greater than visual range.

Choosing to fly at this recommended distance allows pilots to safely assess storm activity while avoiding the potential for being caught in rapidly changing and dangerous weather related to thunderstorms. This guideline is based on best practices and is widely accepted in aviation to promote safety and prevent accidents associated with thunderstorm encounters. Pilots are trained to respect these distances to ensure their own safety, as well as the safety of passengers and crew.