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 Friday, November 10, 2023 at 1:51 pm.
This is an old forecast that is no longer valid.
Today's Air Quality Conditions
Current 24-hour average fine particulate concentrations are in the upper Code Green to mid Code Yellow range statewide. As the afternoon progresses, hourly values in the Code Green range are expected at most locations and are already being observed in the NE half of the state as a cold front sweeps through from north to south.
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
On Saturday, the large surface high spinning over the Midwest/Great Lakes Region will continue to funnel cold, dry air over the state from the northeast; Code Green fine particulate levels should prevail statewide with this clean air advection. We do however expect localized Code Yellow conditions in Cherokee and Clay Counties as the Collett Ridge Fire remains active.
Outlook
Another chance for rain returns on Sunday in the southern portion of the state as another shortwave disturbance moves through. Expect Code Green daily average fine particulate levels statewide with the possible exception of Code Yellow conditions in Cherokee and Clay Counties on Sunday. On Monday, North Carolina will remain under the influence of strong surface high pressure, and the associated light/variable winds may allow particle pollution to tick up slightly but stay in the 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
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