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 Sunday, May 5, 2024 at 3:47 pm.
This forecast is currently valid.
Today's Air Quality Conditions
Air quality levels are well within 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
Tomorrow, a weak shortwave disturbance centered around H5 will approach, and with a moist air mass courtesy of persistent onshore flow, this should be enough to produce additional clouds and scattered showers. Air quality levels should continue to hold in the Code Green range.
Outlook
Tuesday and Wednesday, surface high pressure in the Atlantic slides further east (past Bermuda), resulting in veering of winds to southwesterly and more onshore. Additionally, H5 shortwave energy may pass east of the area overnight, resulting in NVA during the day on Tuesday, which would result in some drying and potential for sun. On Wednesday, another subtle shortwave may approach that in the moist, maritime air mass may trigger additional clouds and storms. For now, with an expected relatively clean air mass and the potential for continued unstable conditions, will hold AQI levels in the upper Code Green range, but with the new PM2.5 standard in place will have to monitor carefully.
Reminder: The new PM2.5 NAAQS will officially begin to be applied to the PM2.5 AQI forecast on Monday, May 6th.
Reminder: The new PM2.5 NAAQS will officially begin to be applied to the PM2.5 AQI forecast on Monday, May 6th.
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
Download KML
North Ridges
South Ridges
(Elevation > 4,000 feet)