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 Tuesday, February 7, 2023 at 2:51 pm.
This forecast is currently valid.
Today's Air Quality Conditions
Daily average fine particulate readings in the Code Yellow range are being observed over parts of the Piedmont east to the Sandhills, with lower readings in the Code Green range over the Mountains and Coastal Plain.
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
Partly cloudy and warmer weather will continue Wednesday with light winds out of the southwest, shifting westerly in the evening as the high pressure center moves further offshore. With no significant air mass change, fine particulate readings may remain elevated in the Code Yellow range over the Piedmont and points east on Wednesday.
Outlook
On Thursday, a frontal boundary will approach from the northwest and stall across the Carolina and Virginia Piedmont, allowing for cloudy skies and some areas of rain over the Mountains, though also potentially allowing for low clouds to offset stronger low-level wind fields. Daily average particulate readings will build until winds increase in the afternoon/evening, allowing for more mixing. Expect air quality in the low Code Yellow range in the interior of the state and upper Code Green elsewhere. Friday, more rain moves in from the southwest as the cold front passes through the state. The precipitation and decent mixing should result in daily average particulate readings in the upper Code Green range.
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
AQI Range
Category Range


(Elevation > 4,000 feet)