When below FL230, how far should you avoid a thunderstorm?

The appropriate distance to avoid a thunderstorm when below FL230 is 10 nautical miles. This guideline stems from aviation safety protocols, which indicate that thunderstorms can produce hazardous weather phenomena such as turbulence, lightning, hail, and wind shear. Maintaining a safe distance helps to mitigate these risks and ensures safe navigation in turbulent conditions.

At this distance, pilots reduce the likelihood of encountering severe downdrafts and updrafts that can impact the aircraft's performance and flight path. Additionally, avoiding this distance can shield the aircraft from potential debris that may be ejected from the storm and lower odds of being caught in unexpected turbulence.

In summary, adhering to the 10 nautical mile distance recommendation is crucial for safety and operational integrity when navigating near thunderstorms below FL230.