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 Thursday, April 10, 2025 at 2:21 pm.
This forecast is currently valid.
Today's Air Quality Conditions
Current daily averages for fine particulates are in Code Yellow range in the western third of the state. Current hourly ozone values are in Code Green range statewide.
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
An upper-level low will slowly move over the state Friday which will bring some clouds and scattered showers and thunderstorms. This should help keep ozone maximum 8-hour averages in Code Green range. However, a bit more sunshine may be observed across the southern and southeastern portion of the state where a dry slot will be and this, along with some ozone aloft, may lead to higher values. As for fine particulates, scattered rain between Thursday night and Friday should help keep averages relatively down. However, upstream fine particulates moving into the state may still keep averages elevated in Upper Green to some localized low Yellow.
Outlook
The upper-level low will remain over the state on Saturday but will exit on Sunday. Low-level moisture wrapping around this low should keep clouds around, especially across the eastern half of the state on Saturday. This should keep a cap on ozone. Widespread sunshine on Sunday may lead to a slight uptick in ozone. As for fine particulates, Code Green averages are forecast through the weekend. However, values may end up slightly higher and reach Code Yellow if elevated fine particulates upstream reach the state. This will be monitored.
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.
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