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, October 30, 2025 at 2:43 pm.
This forecast is currently valid.
Today's Air Quality Conditions
Air quality is in the Code Green range statewide today.
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
The synoptic setup for Friday puts us within dry westerly flow aloft at the broad base of the mid/upper trough, with westerly winds at the surface as well as the surface low departs to the northeast. Lingering gustiness should keep the atmosphere well-mixed and PM2.5 should hold in the Code Green range statewide, as in recent days. Tomorrow also marks the last day of the 2025 ozone season, and we will end this year with Green statewide as well.
Outlook
Another shortwave disturbance approaches Saturday and amplifies over the east coast on Sunday, with winds aloft backing out of the southwest. At the surface, high pressure will build in from the west. Light westerly winds continue Saturday, calming into the evening which will help a strong inversion develop going into Sunday morning. Light and variable winds are expected on Sunday, becoming northerly. PM2.5 will gradually rise during over the weekend into the upper Code Green range for the daily average, with widespread intermittent moderate hourly values expected.
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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(Elevation > 4,000 feet)