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 Monday, December 9, 2024 at 1:56 am.
This forecast is currently valid.
Today's Air Quality Conditions
A wildfire is currently burning in Crowders Mountain State Park in Gaston County. Smoke from the wildfire is likely leading to an increase in fine particulates and localized degraded air quality near and downstream of the wildfire.
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
A wildfire ignited in Gaston County at Crowders Mountain State Park Sunday and continues to burn early Monday morning, although the fire is mostly under control at this point. The fire will continue to produce smoke and increase fine particulates near and downstream of it, with localized degraded air quality likely. Rain is moving through the area this morning and should help further with containment. Winds will primarily be out of the southwest through Monday and will direct any smoke to the northeast. We have increased the forecast for Gaston and downstream counties to account for this.
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.
(Elevation > 4,000 feet)