What's That Noise? Sonic Boom Warning Issued for Michigan

Even if you know it's coming, a sonic boom can still take you by surprise - and if you're a resident of Southeast Michigan or Northwest Ohio, you may hear some today.

The 180th Fighter Wing in Ohio will be conducting testing Monday (7/15) afternoon and says residents should be aware that the loud "booms" could be heard throughout the area.

What is a Sonic Boom?

Sonic booms are defined as extremely loud, explosive noises caused by the shockwave of an aircraft traveling faster than the speed of sound. According to NASA, sound travels at 1,100 feet per second or 761 miles per hour. Atmospheric conditions can sometimes alter that, so those figures are based on a standard day at sea level with static conditions.

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The phenomenon is also sometimes referred to as "breaking the sound barrier."

When Can Sonic Booms be Heard in Michigan?

The 180th Fighter Wing in Ohio says the testing is scheduled to take place Monday (7/15) between 1:30 PM and 3:30 PM, weather permitting.

Mlive reports that the functional flight checks are taking place at an altitude of 30,000 fee above Bowling Green and Toledo, Ohio. The booms will be loud enough to be heard by residents in Southeast Michigan and they will be strong enough for residents to feel the shockwaves and may experience window rattling windows in homes and businesses.

Why the Sonic Boom Warning in Michigan and Ohio?

According to the 180th Fighter Wing, flight checks take place after planes go through heavy maintenance in order to ensure planes are running properly and mission-ready.

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