In a temperature inversion, when can a pilot expect to encounter a wind shear zone?

In the context of temperature inversions, wind shear can be particularly significant when there are notable differences between wind speeds at various altitudes. The correct answer emphasizes that a pilot can expect wind shear when the wind speeds at altitudes of 2,000 to 4,000 feet AGL (Above Ground Level) reach at least 25 knots.

This situation occurs because temperature inversions can create stable air layers that may trap cooler air near the ground while warmer air sits above it. Such conditions can lead to sharp changes in wind speed and direction, especially as the air mass transitions from the stable inversion layer to less stable air above. When the wind speed reaches this higher threshold, the variance between the lower and upper layers increases, which can create turbulence and wind shear that pilots must be aware of during ascent or descent.

The absence of wind shear at lower speeds or lower altitudes helps differentiate this phenomenon, as the contrast deemed necessary to generate significant shear is typically more pronounced at these higher wind speeds within the specified altitude range. Thus, understanding this correlation is crucial for pilots in order to anticipate potential hazards associated with wind shear during flight operations.