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 Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 2:10 pm.
This is an old forecast that is no longer valid.
Today's Air Quality Conditions
Current daily average PM2.5 levels are in the Code Yellow range in the Triangle area and northward, with Code Green conditions being observed elsewhere. Ozone levels are holding in the 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
Sunny and dry conditions will return after the cold front clears the state on Sunday as high pressure builds in from the northwest. Both ozone and PM2.5 concentrations should remain well within the Code Green range. The center of the high will quickly move eastward and off the Carolina coast by Monday afternoon resulting in very light and variable winds across the state. Both ozone and fine particulate concentrations will gradually rise, possibly into the moderate range.
Outlook
Another shortwave and surface low will pass over the Great Lakes region on Tuesday but the surface high lingering over the southeast will prevent the associated cold front from impacting North Carolina. With a warm front lifting through ahead of that system, ozone and fine particulates will likely stay elevated into the moderate range in portions of the interior.
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.
Forecast Day
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Max AQI Range
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(Elevation > 4,000 feet)