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 Sunday, August 23, 2026 at 2:04 pm.
This forecast is currently valid.
Today's Air Quality Conditions
Current daily average fine particulates are in the Code Yellow range at most locations in the southern half of the state thus far this afternoon. Ozone levels have held in the Code Green range statewide today.
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 closed upper low over the northeastern US will begin to lift away on Monday but the upper trough will persist over the Mid-Atlantic this week. There will be a lack of any strong surface features through at least mid-week, leading to calm/light winds and dry, quiet weather in general. Air quality will gradually rise, but should hold in the upper Green to low Yellow range on Monday and Tuesday.
Outlook
By Wednesday, winds will veer more southwesterly and moisture will start to return to the region. Again, air quality will trend upward into the moderate range in parts of the interior.
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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Max AQI Range
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(Elevation > 4,000 feet)