Air Quality Portal
Forecast Discussion
The North Carolina Division of Air Quality issues forecasts for fine particulate matter year-round and ozone from March through October. Forecasts and discussions are updated each afternoon for the next three days, and are sometimes updated in the morning to reflect the latest ambient conditions.
This forecast was issued on Wednesday, December 31, 2025 at 3:31 pm.
This forecast is currently valid.
Today's Air Quality Conditions
Current daily average fine particulate concentrations are in the Code Green range statewide thus far this afternoon.
For a display of the most recent Air Quality Index (AQI) conditions throughout the day, visit the Ambient Information Reporter (AIR) tool.
General Forecast Discussion
The deep trough persists over the eastern US. On New Year’s Day, a weak surface low over New England will push a cold front south to just around the VA border, and this boundary will stall out in that vicinity through Friday. Upper Code Green daily average PM2.5 concentrations are expected statewide on Thursday. Lighter winds veering southwesterly on Friday as well as increased cloud cover will encourage particle pollution to build up and daily averages may reach the Code Yellow range throughout central and eastern NC.
Outlook
A shortwave disturbance and associated surface low will impact the state on Saturday. The low will pass by just to our south before lifting northeast up the coast. This will bring widespread light rain. At this time, I expect moderate conditions to persist across most of the state.
Daily PM2.5 values > 9.0 μg/m³, or in the Code Yellow range or higher, may contribute to an exceedance of the EPA's annual PM2.5 standard.
Extended Air Quality Outlook
The forecast Air Quality Index value for each pollutant represents the highest value expected within each county, so some areas and monitors may see lower values. We use the best information and techniques available to ensure the quality and accuracy of the forecasts we provide to the public. Note that ranges do not include the nine-county Triad region, which is covered by the Forsyth County Office of Environmental Assistance and Protection.
Forecast Day
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(Elevation > 4,000 feet)