Department meteorologists use monitoring data and weather forecast models to predict Wisconsin's future ozone (O₃) and fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) air quality using the Air Quality Index (AQI) [exit DNR]. This forecast is updated two-to-three times weekly throughout the year, and when warranted, an Air Quality Advisory is issued. Below is the latest air quality forecast for Wisconsin.

Updated Monday, December 8 - 9:45 AM

Monday, December 8 - Sunday, December 14, 2025

Ozone

Good (Green) AQI levels.

Particle pollution (PM_2.5)

Good (Green) to Moderate (Yellow) AQI levels.

Short-Term Forecast Maps:

The black dots represent the approximate location of Wisconsin's air quality monitors. Read the forecast summaries below for further geographic information.

Short-Term Forecast (Days 1-3)

A couple of clipper systems are poised to move through the Great Lakes region, the first moving through tonight into early Tuesday morning, and the second Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday morning. Southerly flow will be increasing in strength today ahead of the initial disturbance. Although mostly Good (Green) AQI PM2.5 is expected, some instances of Moderate (Yellow) AQI PM2.5 will be possible. Moderate (Yellow) AQI PM2.5 is then forecast statewide on Tuesday as the initial disturbance exits east and the second, more potent system arrives from the west. Blustery winds will accompany this system, allowing Good (Green) AQI to develop on Wednesday.

Extended Outlook (Days 4-7)

Cold air will return on northerly flow early Thursday before winds calm and become westerly throughout the day. Precipitation chances then return Friday ahead of the next Arctic air mass, which arrives over the weekend. A mix of Good and Moderate AQI is currently expected for Thursday and Friday before Good AQI returns over the weekend.

Air Quality Index (AQI) ranges

For more information about AQI ranges and colors, see the U.S. EPA's Air Quality Index (AQI) Basics [exit DNR].