What is the expected duration of an individual microburst?

The expected duration of an individual microburst is seldom longer than 15 minutes from the time the burst strikes the ground until it dissipates. This characteristic aligns with the nature of microbursts, which are intense, localized downdrafts that can create significant wind shear and turbulence.

Microbursts generally occur as a result of a rapidly descending column of air associated with convective precipitation. The lifecycle of a microburst is relatively short, often peaking in intensity and then dissipating quickly. By understanding this duration, aircraft dispatchers and pilots can better anticipate and respond to the immediate threats posed by microbursts during flight operations, particularly during takeoff and landing phases.

Understanding the timeline of a microburst is crucial for safety procedures; recognizing that these events are not prolonged helps in developing effective operational strategies and precautionary measures. Other durations presented in the options exceed the typical lifespan of microbursts, which solidifies the accuracy of the chosen answer regarding their expected duration.