Forecast Discussion

Ozone levels are holding in the Code Green range this afternoon while fine particulate levels across most of interior NC east of the Foothills are in the low Code Yellow range.

Tomorrow, a mid-level trough approaching from the west will result in continued unsettled weather, with showers and storms remaining likely. With a moist air mass in place, it is likely fine particulate levels will remain elevated across much of the state through the period. Ozone levels will likely remain low due to clouds.

Thursday into Friday, behind the departing mid-level trough, a weak surface low and attendant cold front will also be pulled eastward. In typical summertime fashion, a very weak area of high pressure behind the system will try to push the front into the region. A brief respite from the overwhelming heat and humidity of recent weeks may be in store on Thursday - especially in western NC. A slightly drier and cooler northwest wind may behind the dissipating surface front may allow for the temporary cleansing of the air shed as well, resulting in fine particulate levels lowering into the Code Green range. Ozone levels should also hold in the Code Green range. By Friday, weak high pressure builds back into the region and may begin to stagnate the air mass once again. Air quality levels on Friday should hold around the Code Green/Yellow threshold for both pollutants in the metros and remain a bit lower elsewhere.