What is described as a threat to aviation and is associated with thunderstorms?

A microburst is a significant and hazardous atmospheric phenomenon associated with thunderstorms that poses a considerable threat to aviation. It occurs when a column of air descends rapidly from a thunderstorm and spreads out upon reaching the ground. This outflow can create very strong, localized downdrafts that can produce severe wind shear, making it particularly dangerous for aircraft, especially during takeoff and landing phases.

Microbursts are typically short-lived, lasting around 5 to 15 minutes, but they can have devastating effects due to the intensity of the winds, which can reach speeds of 100 knots or more. Pilots need to be aware of the potential for microbursts to take necessary precautions and avoid flying into areas with thunderstorms where microbursts are likely to occur.

In contrast, while gust fronts, updrafts, and squall lines are also associated with thunderstorms and can impact aviation safety, they do not present the same level of localized, severe hazards as microbursts. Gust fronts can lead to turbulence but generally do not result in the extreme wind shears that microbursts can cause. Updrafts contribute to storm development but are not directly a hazard once the thunderstorm is established. Squall lines represent a line of thunderstorms which may bring