Current air quality outlook
Department meteorologists use monitoring data and weather forecast models to predict Wisconsin's future air quality using the Air Quality Index (AQI) [exit DNR]. If warranted, an Air Quality Notice is issued. Below is the latest air quality forecast for Wisconsin.
Monday, August 10 - Friday, August 14, 2020
Ozone
Good to Low-Moderate levels.
Particle pollution (PM2.5)
Good levels.
Weather outlook
Monday - A slow moving cold front will bring multiple chances for scattered, potentially strong, storms across the state today, while conditions remain muggy ahead of the front. Good AQI is forecast, especially after the passage of the front, while some areas in the southeast and along the lakeshore could see concentrations build towards Moderate AQI ahead of it.
Weather map for Monday, August 10, 2020. Graphic is courtesy of the NOAA/NWS Weather Prediction Center.
Tuesday - High pressure behind the front will lead to much more pleasant and seasonable conditions for Tuesday. Dry, mostly clear skies and Good AQI are forecast.
Weather map for Tuesday, August 11, 2020. Graphic is courtesy of the NOAA/NWS Weather Prediction Center.
Wednesday - High pressure looks to be more dominant east of the state, allowing for ESE winds to develop. Temperatures will be a bit warmer and a majority of the moisture looks to remain to our south and west. Good AQI is anticipated for most, with some areas inland creeping towards Low-Moderate AQI.
Extended outlook
A fair amount of uncertainty remains regarding the back end of the week, especially with regards to the moisture to our west and whether or not it makes it far enough east with enough energy to support rain and storm development. Regardless, flow patterns over the lake look to be favorable out of the ENE, which typically provides Good AQI to lakeshore areas. Further inland, where a southerly component to the flow is more likely, Low-Moderate AQI remains possible.
Note: All weather maps are courtesy of the NOAA/NWS Weather Prediction Center [exit DNR].
Air Quality Index (AQI) ranges
For more information about AQI ranges and colors, see the U.S. EPA's Air Quality Index - A Guide to Air Quality and Your Health [exit DNR].