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 Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 5:59 pm.
This forecast is currently valid.
Today's Air Quality Conditions
Hourly and current daily average fine particulate levels are in the low Code Yellow range across interior NC and remain lower in the Code Green range in the mountain and coastal regions.
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
Sunday marks the start of ozone season. With increasing clouds and the early March sun angle, anticipate mostly Code Green concentrations for ozone. With no significant air mass change, fine particulate levels may continue to hold in the low Code Yellow range across much of the state.
Outlook
Monday into Tuesday, a weak backdoor cold front will attempt to push in from the north. If successful, a colder and drier air mass will advect in that should lower air quality levels back into the Code Green range statewide. A weak upper disturbance will rapidly approach from the west that could spark some showers as well. Fine particulate levels will likely hover in the upper Code Green to low Code Yellow range, while increased clouds and showers should easily hold ozone levels in the Code Green range.
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)